Interurban and Rural Bus Transport in Australia - Industry Market Research Report

Turning Off: Weak Demand and Rising External Competition Have Reduced Revenue

Revenue for interurban and rural bus transport operators has declined. External pressure from rising urbanisation and other transport options has intensified. However, the expansion of leisure markets has somewhat offset these negative factors. National bus companies have invested in luxurious new vehicles and offered new routes to target emerging tourist markets. Nevertheless, the pandemic has greatly disrupted the market, as international and domestic border closures effectively ended tourism activity while restrictions were in place. Overall, revenue is expected to decline at an average of 5.4% per year over the five years through 2022-23, to an estimated $1.7 billion. This includes a forecast rise of 17.1% in the current year, as tourism activity recovers. However, rising cost of living pressures have eroded spending power, limiting growth.

Industry firms primarily operate buses that transport passengers over regular routes and on regular schedules, mainly outside metropolitan areas or over long distances.

This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.