The Victorian Government has announced it will extend free public transport for another month, before introducing half-price fares for the rest of the year.
The Government made public transport free for the month of April in an effort to reduce the impact of high fuel prices.
Under the new plan, public transport will remain free until 1 June.
The state’s next election will be held in November.
Free PT
Over the weekend, the Victorian Government confirmed it would extend its free travel period across all trains, trams and buses.
After the extension ends, commuters will pay $5.70 for a full daily fare, down from $11.40.
Refunds will be offered to those who have pre-paid Myki passes.
Opposition
Your contribution ensures The Daily Aus can continue doing the work you love.
I want to give $10 monthly to help TDA keep doing the news.
Your details:
Alongside the announcement of free public transport, the Government said it would spend $673.6 million in the upcoming state budget on building new trains.
Shadow Transport Minister Matthew Guy called the announcement “spin”.
“They try and tell us the state’s in a great financial shape... They’re in a parlous financial position because of [Jacinta Allan], she presided over $200 billion of additional debt”.
Other states
In 2024, the WA Government made public transport free for everyone on Sundays, and for students travelling to and from school.
Over the weekend, it announced these programs would be made permanent.
Tasmania’s free public transport travel period will continue to run until 30 June.
In the ACT, the Government has halved the monthly fare cap until July.
All bus and light rail travel is free once commuters reach the cap, which is currently $68.20 in a month for adults.
