Bus users will be able to see how their services are performing, with detailed bus performance data to be published for the first time.

The performance data, available online from today, reveals the monthly punctuality of the overall bus network as well as punctuality for individual bus routes, dating back to 2017.

The latest data shows the bus network achieved 93.6 per cent punctuality in June overall, with 98.8 per cent of services monitored, well above the public target of 86 per cent for punctuality.

Pre-coronavirus in June 2019, the bus network achieved 87.1 per cent punctuality and it has averaged 88.6 per cent punctuality since 1 July 2017.

The publication of performance data is part of Victoria’s Bus Plan, which aims for the network to better meet demand, have greener and smarter fleets, improve accessibility and deliver value for money.

The data will be published each month in line with the monitoring and reporting system already in place for the state’s tram and train networks.

In another initiative, a trial of the real-time passenger capacity indicator RideSpace is underway across the bus network to assess its accuracy across high-frequency routes.

As more people return to public transport Ridespace, which is available on Melbourne trains and is being trialed on trams, lets people know how busy or quiet a service is to help them feel comfortable using public transport. Data is collected from about 350 routes, enabling real-time information for passengers and the tracking of buses via the PTV app.

Last week, patronage levels for metropolitan buses were at 55 per cent of pre-coronavirus levels, compared to 43 per cent for metropolitan trains and 37 per cent for trams.

Expressions of Interest are also being progressed for involvement in the $20 million, three-year Zero Emissions Bus Trial, due to start in early 2022 as part of a pledge for all new buses purchased from 2025 to have zero emissions.

Performance data for the train, tram and bus networks can be found at ptv.vic.gov.au under ‘Data and Reporting’.