Kinetic and Melbourne Airport have broken ground on a brand-new, purpose-built electric bus depot for the city’s SkyBus service.
The facility, which will be situated at 18-24 Apac Drive, will mark the construction of Australia’s first electric double-decker bus depot, and aligns with Kinetic’s commitment to operate a 100% electric SkyBus fleet in Melbourne by 2031.
Kinetic is set to invest 80 million AUD into fleet electrification in Melbourne as part of its contract with the Victorian Government, which is in effect until 2034.
Melbourne Airport will deliver both the depot construction and site works, with the finished facility set to be capable of housing up to 93 buses and 200 staff once operational in early 2027.
The SkyBus depot will feature a set of two 80-metre gantry charging systems, allowing for high-volume overnight charging.
Kinetic Group CEO Michael Sewards said:This is a significant step forward in delivering quieter, cleaner airport connections for Melbourne.
SkyBus has been serving Melbourne for nearly 50 years, and this investment ensures we continue to deliver world-class service while leading the transition to zero-emission transport.
The depot will be home to Australia's first electric double-decker buses and will underpin our commitment to a fully electric Melbourne fleet by 2031.
Depot construction is being delivered by Vaughan Constructions, with project management handled by Legacy Project Management. The electrification of SkyBus’ services is now underway, with the Sunshine Express launching in November and the Eastern Express set to transition to 100% in 2027.
