Adelaide CBD Gets New Transport Strategy Targeting 2030 Public Transit Upgrades

The City of Adelaide is developing an Integrated Transport Strategy to replace the Smart Move Transport and Movement Strategy 2012-2022. Stage 2 of public engagement on the new strategy finished in May 2025. The plan sets out targets for priority or dedicated public transport corridors in the CBD and major corridors by 2030, along with supporting infrastructure such as bus lanes and signal priority by 2035.

Network layout and responsibilities

Adelaide's public transport network is radial and relies heavily on buses, including the O-Bahn. Passengers in the CBD often need two or three service changes to complete trips. The State Government holds primary responsibility for planning public transport services. The City of Adelaide advocates for improved coverage and manages on-street infrastructure such as bus lanes and traffic signal priority.

South Australia's Transport Strategy 2025 identifies the CBD and inner suburbs as facing the most significant congestion challenges over the next 30 years, with congestion costs projected to rise to $2.6 billion. These conditions directly shape daily travel for residents who rely on buses to reach workplaces, appointments and other local destinations.

Implications for daily movement

Residents who travel through the CBD could see changes in how services connect if dedicated corridors and signal priority measures are introduced on schedule. Reduced transfers and more direct options on major routes would alter commute times and the number of stops required for routine journeys. The City continues to oversee infrastructure elements that support these services while the State Government directs overall planning.

Next steps involve further work by the City of Adelaide to finalise the Integrated Transport Strategy following the completed engagement stages. Implementation of the identified corridor and infrastructure targets remains subject to the timelines stated in the plan documents.