Problem:
Transport planning in Victoria so far has largely been based on each different service being provided by one technology, for instance urban transit with trams, metro transport with electric trains and interurban transport with diesel trains.

On top of this, as Melbourne has expanded and the need for different services has arisen, the technology has been “stretched” to perform two roles, often with mixed success. The result is often a compromise which compares badly with networks elsewhere which focus on either one role or the other.

Solution:

1. The system should be untangled, with separate services dedicated to each role.
2. The service should be made independent of the technology – for instance, interurban electric trains and metro trams should be introduced wherever the local conditions make them more feasible than current practice
3. With some alterations, different services can be provided using the same technology in the same corridoor – for instance, rail lines can carry both metro and interurban trains if expanded to four tracks. However four platforms are an unnecessary waste except at metro-interurban interchange stations.
4. Passengers should realise that changing modes during a trip (eg from a metro to an interurban service) is vital in the provision of high quality public transport. High frequency will ensure it is not a disincentive to travel.