Kinetic launches electric Pride bus in Melbourne

Kinetic is driving a message of love and support across Melbourne with the launch of its eighth Pride Bus ahead of International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex Discrimination and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17.

The latest Pride bus will be the first electric bus in Kinetic’s Pride fleet and features the Progress Pride Flag and the words “You are Loved”, sending a clear message to the community that everyone should feel safe and respected.

The Pride Bus initiative is part of Kinetic’s commitment to recognising and supporting all sexualities, genders, identities and cultures in both the workplace and in the communities it serves.

Kinetic Melbourne General Manager Graham Smith said the bus was a visible symbol of Kinetic’s approach to inclusion.

“Our Pride Buses are about visibility. They are colourful, clear symbols to the community that they should always feel safe and comfortable being themselves on our buses.

“It also serves as an important reminder that we must continue to challenge ourselves to do better and be better allies to the LGBTQIA+ community. Inclusion is not just about tolerating differences; it's about embracing diversity and celebrating all the things that make us unique.”

Kinetic launched its first Pride Bus on its iconic SkyBus service in Melbourne in early 2022. It is now a permanent beacon of support for LGBTQIA+ communities, adorning the Tullamarine Freeway connecting Melbourne Airport with the city centre.

The rainbow Pride fleet has since grown to eight buses across Kinetic networks in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand. The newest bus will operate on selected routes throughout Melbourne, providing a unique and memorable experience for commuters and visitors alike.

Kinetic operates a third of Melbourne’s public bus network after it was selected by the Victorian Government to operate the $2.3 billion Metropolitan Bus Franchise in 2021. Through the partnership Kinetic is committed to delivering a transport network that supports opportunity, inclusion, growth and community connections for generations to come.

Kinetic is also supported the Victorian Government to introduce a zero and low emissions bus network, includding replacing 163 diesel buses with 36 BEBs and 127 hybrid buses by mid-2025. As the largest owner and operator of battery electric buses, Kinetic’s zero emission fleet will grow to 300 in Australasia in 2023.

Learn more about inclusion at Kinetic here.

Further enquiries
Barrett Gibson
GM - Marketing & Communications
0424 647 488
barrettg@wearekinetic.com