Victoria and Tasmania have temporarily made public transport free.
The states’ governments announced the change on the weekend amid high fuel prices related to the conflict in the Middle East.
At the time of publication, no other state or territory has made a similar commitment.
Victoria
The Victorian Government announced on Sunday train, tram, and bus travel will be free from Tuesday 31 March until the end of April.
This policy is expected to cost the state $71 million, while a regular daily commuter will save up to $220 over the month.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the policy “won’t solve every problem, but it’s an immediate step to help Victorians right now”.
Tasmania
The Tasmanian Government also announced on Sunday bus and ferry travel will be free from Monday until 1 July.
A daily commuter travelling from the state’s south-east into Hobart will save approximately $88 a week.
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Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said: “Families are feeling the pinch, and this important cost-of-living measure will deliver real savings”.
Others
NSW Transport Minister John Graham told media on Sunday the state would not make public transport free.
He said the NSW Government needed to be able to “assist the broader economy” long-term.
The WA Government also ruled out making public transport free, having lowered fares state-wide at the start of 2026.
The ACT Parliament voted down a motion for 50-cent fares last week.
Queensland public transport costs a flat rate of 50 cents per trip across the state.
In the Northern Territory, buses are already free in Darwin and Alice Springs.
South Australia’s Government told SBS it is focusing on other cost-of-living measures.
