See below for the latest news and updates from Ventura.

Free Travel Across Victoria – 31 March to 30 April

Ventura passengers can travel for free on all our buses across Victoria from Tuesday 31 March to Thursday 30 April. You don’t need to tap on or off, but if you do, you won’t be charged. Free travel applies to trips solely within Victoria (exceptions include travel to Albury, Mount Gambier, and Deniliquin). Airport buses, ferries, and privately-run services are excluded.

Myki passes will not be charged during this period and will automatically be extended before paid travel resumes. For regional services, no ticket or myki is required, though some coach seat reservations are still needed at zero cost to manage capacity. Already booked tickets during this period can be refunded online via V/Line or at staffed stations.

For full details visit the Victorian Government announcement here.

Women at the Wheel Drives Opportunity at Ventura
Ventura recently hosted its Women at the Wheel Employment Open Day, welcoming women from across Melbourne to explore a career behind the wheel. The event was an inspiring and empowering day, giving participants the chance to meet our team, learn about our paid training pathways, and experience what it’s like to drive with Ventura.

Ventura Launches Hailo App to Make Catching the Bus Easier and More Accessible in Melbourne

Ventura Bus Lines has partnered with innovative technology platform Hailo to introduce a new way for passengers to connect with their bus. The Hailo app allows passengers to digitally “hail” their bus in real time, letting drivers know where they are waiting and if they require assistance, helping ensure no one is left behind. Designed with accessibility at its core, the technology supports passengers of all abilities and creates a more inclusive, reliable and connected public transport experience for the community. Find out more: https://venturabus.com.au/hailo/

Ventura announces acquisition of Crown Coaches, strengthening Melbourne operations and accelerating zero emissions transition

Ventura has today announced that it will acquire Melbourne based Crown Coaches, a highly regarded operator specialising in school and corporate charter services. The transaction is pending ACCC and FIRB approval.

The acquisition will expand Ventura’s operational footprint in Victoria, adding approximately 150 buses, including 10 electric buses, to its fleet. All 267 Crown Coaches employees will be offered employment, ensuring continuity and stability for staff and customers.

The Crown Coaches brand will continue operating under Ventura’s umbrella, maintaining existing service relationships and preserving the strong reputation Crown Coaches has built across specialist school and charter transport.

The combined fleet and operational capability will enhance Melbourne’s transport capacity, strengthen service resilience and help meet the city’s growing mobility needs.

The acquisition positions Ventura to accelerate the transition to zero emission buses (ZEBs), leveraging both its existing electric bus operations and the expanded fleet’s capabilities.

Ventura brings more than a century of experience delivering safe, reliable and customer focused transport for Victorians. With 1,800 local employees representing 59 nationalities, Ventura is deeply embedded in the communities it serves.

All existing client relationships will continue uninterrupted, with both Crown Coaches and Ventura working closely with customers, schools, and government partners to ensure a smooth transition.

“Ventura has always been committed to delivering safe, reliable and innovative transport services for our customers and communities,” said Carol Anne Nelson, Ventura CEO.

“This acquisition strengthens our capability, supports the transition to cleaner, greener transport and maintains the trusted service Crown Coaches is known for.”

The transaction was confirmed on 18 February, with completion expected in April this year, subject to Australian competition and foreign investment approval.

Free Travel is Here

Public transport is now free for thousands of people in Victoria young and old. Passengers under 18 can now access free travel on trains, trams and buses anywhere in Victoria, anytime. To access free travel, young people can simply buy a Youth myki and tap on and off each time they travel. More than 650,000 seniors, and 280,000 carers and disability support pensioners can also now travel for free on public transport anywhere in Victoria, every weekend. Find out more at www.transport.vic.gov.au

New Transport Victoria Branding
You’ll start seeing our buses with the new Transport Victoria logo as PTV merges into a single transport brand. Operator logos are being removed, replaced with a clean, bold block‑letter design for a simpler, unified look.

The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal

This festive season, giving back has been a true team effort at Ventura. With all 12 Ventura depots taking part, our people proudly supported The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, helping bring support and hope to local families across our communities. A huge thank you to our teams for spreading kindness and making a real difference where it matters most this Christmas.

Driving Community Spirit: Ventura Bus Lines Joins Forces with Doveton Football & Netball Club

Ventura Bus Lines is excited to announce our new partnership with the Doveton Football & Netball Club! Together, we’re backing grassroots sport and helping keep the heart of Doveton strong.

This partnership is about more than buses and game day—it’s about supporting local players, fans, and families, and creating spaces where community pride can thrive. Whether it’s on the road or on the field, Ventura is proud to stand with the Doves this season.

Here’s to teamwork, big wins, and a stronger local community!

Ventura Supports the SmackTalk Prevention Movement & Unplug24 Challenge

Ventura is proud to support the SmackTalk Prevention Movement and the Unplug24 Challenge, vital initiatives focused on raising awareness and funding efforts to prevent sexual extortion and suicide.

On Thursday, October 24, 2025, take part in the Unplug24 Challenge, a 24-hour social media blackout designed to highlight these critical issues and make a meaningful impact.

Look out for Bus 1668 in Melbourne’s South Eastern suburbs, proudly showcasing this cause. Together, we can drive awareness, inspire action, and create positive change in our community.

Join the Unplug24 Challenge and support this vital cause today. Find out more: click here.