Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan to extend free public transport for a month and then slash fares
The move will save the average commuter more than $850.
Free public transport will be extended for another month in Victoria and then will be half price for the rest of the year.
The Allan Labor Government will make the announcement on Sunday in a bid to ease cost of living pressures exacerbated by the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Instead of finishing at the end of April as originally planned, Victorians will be able to enjoy free trains, trams and buses until June 1 when half price fares will kick in.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Another month of free public transport in May will save the average daily commuter $200, while half-price fares until the end of the year will save commuters more then $850.
Public transport will remain free permanently for people under 18 and other special pass holders.
During a press conference at Sunbury train station Allan said the move was about taking the pressure off at the pump for motorists as well as helping regular commuters.
She acknowledged it would not solve every problem but was a small step to help Victorians through a challenging and uncertain time.
“We always said that free public transport would be temporary, but we do know that the impact of the conflict in the Middle East is going to continue to be with us for some months,” she said.
“As Victorian Premier I’m determined to do everything I can to help Victorian’s right now.”
Last month Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the state would lose $71 million by switching off the transport ticketing and fare system.
Tasmania also announced in March that commuters would get three months of free transport.
Governments in NSW and SA have said they do not plan to follow suit at this time.
Originally published on 7NEWS
