Real-time bus and ferry tracking information now available across Hobart transport network

Hobartians can now access real-time tracking information for buses and ferries, allowing public transport users to see how far away their ride is from arriving at a given stop.

Transport Minister Eric Abetz has announced that real-time tracking for buses and ferries in Hobart is now available. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Real-time tracking is now available across Hobart’s public transport network, giving people the ability to see how far away buses or ferries are from arriving at their stop.

The state government announced the rollout of the technology in July, engaging software company Mattersoft to deliver the project.

Transport Minister Eric Abetz said on Monday that the tracking information could now be accessed via the Transport Tasmania website, giving public transport users “peace-of-mind” and clarity regarding their trips and travel time.

Real-time bus tracking is now available in Hobart. Picture: Linda Higginson

“Real-time tracking puts up-to-the-minute public transport information in the palm of your hand, so you can see how far away your bus or ferry is,” he said.

“This is an important step in creating a more reliable, convenient, and accessible public transport network for all Tasmanians.”

Passengers can use an interactive map to see where a bus or ferry is in relation to their stop, including how many minutes away it is from arriving.

However, Mr Abetz said the technology had not yet been integrated with Metro Tasmania’s smartphone app and the government was still working to make real-time tracking available on Google Maps.

“I look forward to both of these going live in the new year,” Mr Abetz said.

Metro is currently updating its app to include the information as part of its journey planner function.

Real-time Derwent Ferry tracking is now available in Hobart. Picture: Richard Jupe

It comes as the state-owned company continues to grapple with a driver shortage and 180 services remain indefinitely suspended in the Greater Hobart area.

Real-time tracking of buses and ferries will be available for private and public transport services, including Metro, Derwent Ferries, Kinetic, Tassielink, Manions Coaches, and Calow’s Coaches.

The technology will eventually be rolled out across the state.

The government also has an agreement with Cubic Transportation Systems to deliver a ‘tap-and-go’ smart ticketing system for public transport in Tasmania.

Promised by former premier Will Hodgman before the 2018 state election, the system will cost $35.4m to implement.

The Liberals initially said it would cost $7m and be operating by 2019-20.

Smart ticketing will allow travellers to tap on and off public transport using their bank card or smartphone, replacing the existing Green Card system.

To access real-time bus and ferry tracking information, visit transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/real-time-bus-and-ferry-tracking

Originally published as Real-time bus and ferry tracking information now available across Hobart transport network