Smart technology is changing the way we travel.

First there were real time traffic updates, meaning drivers can be aware of the conditions of local roads, and the latest innovation is real-time tracking on regional buses.

This smart technology has been active since 2020 and now 1800 more buses have been added to the list including those in the Orana and Far West region.

 The rollout of Phase 3 of the Transport Connected Bus program is underway and buses in eight areas across the state will be progressively fitted with GPS tracking devices and automatic passenger technology.

“On completion of this new round of installations of the tracking technology, just over 3,000 buses in regional and outer metropolitan NSW be operating with this added feature," Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said.

The technology allows passengers to use various apps such as Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner to find out where their bus is in real time, how soon it is due to arrive and how full it is. Since July 2020, more than 1.5 million trips have been tracked across the state.

The data collected from the program also helps bus operators with accurate data and tools to improve services and keep buses running on time, and will assist Transport for NSW plan for future improvements to services.

Bus users can also view interactive maps, digital timetables, routes and stop information. They can ask Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa to ‘Talk to Transport for NSW’ to access real-time updates and send a travel query to the Facebook Messenger bot.

Ms Aitchison said it will be much easier for people in regional NSW to use buses in their town with real-time, user-friendly and reliable trip information at their fingertips.

"Being able to better plan their journey is a game-changer for many people who rely on buses in regional NSW," she said.

“This will greatly improve the public transport experience for regional bus passengers, making it a more accessible and stress-free option.

“Transport Connected Buses will operate on regular passenger routes as well as school services. Parents and carers can track the bus on which their child is coming home from school, and families can know exactly when to meet a bus to collect an elderly relative."