Canberra’s public transport network is marking its 100th anniversary, celebrating a century since the city’s first public bus service began operating on July 19, 1926.

The Federal Capital Commission launched the City Omnibus Service with four newly acquired AEC Renown omnibuses, providing the fledgling national capital with its first public bus routes.

As Canberra grew, so did its bus network. By 1949 the fleet had expanded to 55 buses, while the introduction of 120 AEC Reliance buses in 1956 allowed passengers to buy tickets directly from drivers. In 1976, Canberra became the first Australian city to operate articulated buses.

Transport Canberra’s fleet now includes 19 light rail vehicles powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity and 450 buses, including 106 battery-electric buses. The ACT Government plans to transition the entire bus fleet to electric by 2040 or earlier.

Light rail, introduced in 2019, now accounts for one in five trips across Canberra’s public transport network. Construction is continuing on Stage 2A to Commonwealth Park, while planning is underway for Stage 2B to Woden.

The centenary was marked at Belconnen Bus Depot, where a restored 1949 bus known as “Matilda” was displayed alongside one of the network’s newest vehicles to highlight how public transport in Canberra has evolved over the past century.

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