The Government of Victoria has announced that the joint venture Yarra Journey Makers (YJM) has won the tender for the operation and maintenance of Melbourne’s tram system, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Tender for the Operation and Maintenance of the Tram System

This contract, valued at 6.8 billion AUD (4.5 billion USD), is set for a nine-year term starting from December 2024.

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YJM, combining the efforts of Transdev and John Holland, has taken on the ambitious task of modernizing and improving the service quality of the world’s largest tram network.

Key Changes and Improvements

One of the key aspects of the new contract is the enhancement of performance and customer service quality.

The contract includes stringent performance indicators and more monitoring points for both day and night services.

This will allow the operator to provide more reliable services and deploy the most suitable trams for specific routes.

Additionally, new accessible trams are planned to replace outdated high-floor models gradually.

These innovations will ensure greater comfort and convenience for all passengers, including those with special needs.

Technological Innovations

During the contract term, new technologies will be implemented to provide passengers with real-time information.

These technologies will help navigate service disruptions and offer alternative transport options.

There will also be tailored updates for blind and visually impaired passengers, such as large text and text-to-speech conversion.

Training and Personnel Development

Additional training for frontline staff will be conducted to effectively support passengers with special needs and customers from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

This initiative aims to create a more inclusive and friendly transport environment for all residents and visitors of Melbourne.

Transition Plan and Integration

Yarra Journey Makers has developed a detailed transition plan to ensure smooth and seamless implementation of the new changes for customers and existing staff.

A key part of this plan is supporting the concept of integrated and sustainable transport for Victoria.

Prospects and Expectations

Brian Brennan, CEO of Transdev Australia and New Zealand, noted that the new partnership will support the creation of a more integrated and sustainable transport system.

“Our focus is on performance and meeting customer needs, as well as finding smarter ways to move more people day and night while providing them with the necessary real-time information,” said Brian Brennan.

Minister for Public and Active Transport, Gabrielle Williams, also expressed optimism about the new contract: “This contract ensures that our trams will continue to transport citizens safely, quickly, and easily. We look forward to working with Transdev and John Holland to modernize and improve passenger service quality.”

Melbourne, home to the world’s largest tram network, is gearing up for significant changes and improvements.

The joint venture Yarra Journey Makers, bringing together the expertise of Transdev and John Holland, will introduce innovative solutions and technologies aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of passenger service.

This contract is an important step towards creating a more integrated and sustainable transport system for Victoria.

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