Transport Canberra will introduce an updated bus timetable from Monday, July 20, 2026, bringing more frequent services and the return of rapid bus routes to West Belconnen. The changes follow months of monitoring after the implementation of a temporary network in February due to Commonwealth Bridge construction works.
The R2 and R3 rapid services will be extended through to West Belconnen, restoring continuous routes between Fraser and Fyshwick, and between Spence and Canberra Airport. These services were previously paused, prompting complaints from residents and local politicians including ACT Greens member Jo Clay and Canberra Liberals member Peter Cain.
In addition, services on the R4, R5, and R6 routes will increase in frequency to improve capacity and address crowding. The R6 and R5 will continue running through to Belconnen, as these extensions have been well used by residents since February.
Transport Canberra executive group manager Jeremy Smith said the July improvements build on refinements introduced in April to maintain reliability. 'With travel impacts of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge works now known, we are increasing frequency and capacity as early as possible,' he said.
The revised timetable will also include minor adjustments to local and school services, affecting routes 19, 26, 56, 63, 66, and 81, as well as services for several schools including Alfred Deakin High School, Campbell Primary School, and Canberra High School.
