By Jessica Anstice
Beaconsfield and Officer train stations have been ranked in the top 10 worst in the state, new data reveals.
RAVC conducted a survey in 2019 to determine which railway stations and services have the most inadequate accessibility, poor safety control and chronic crowding.
With more than 24,000 rail commuters participating in the biennial On Track survey and 311 stations in Victoria, Officer Train Station was dubbed the ninth ‘worst performer’ with a score of 4.41 out of 10, while Beaconsfield was tenth at 4.42.
This is the first time the two Pakenham line stations have been in the bottom 10.
When participants filled out the survey, they were asked to rate the station they regularly use out of 10, with 10 being ‘very satisfied’ and one being ‘very dissatisfied’.
Other low ranking stations included South Kensington (2.48), Aircraft (3.43), Donnybrook (3.44), Hastings (3.50), Broadmeadows (3.74), Jacana (3.76), Ruthven (3.96) and Tarneit (4.27).
The top performing stations included Hawkstowe (9), Carnegie, Pakenham line (8.61) and Middle Gorge (8.48).
Gembrook MP Brad Battin said the report is “another example of commuters in the south east being ignored by the arrogant Labor Government”.
“For years we have joined the community calling on Labor to match the Liberal’s election commitment in 2018 for shelter upgrades, toilet facilities and added security for Beaconsfield Railway Station, yet they continue to turn their backs on our community,” he said.
“Labor has been in government for 17 out of the last 21 years, the lack of infrastructure, lack of planning and lack of action can only be blamed on the lack of care from Labor to the south east.
“Congestion is a major issue in the south east, our trains are full, our roads are congested and Labor tells us it is all ok – that is arrogant.”
According to RACV, 60 percent of respondents who drive a car to the train station said better public transport would make them consider alternative ways of getting to the station.
Participants, particularly in regional parts of the state, told RACV they have no other option but to drive to their station.
The State Government has been contacted for comment.
