News
12 May, 2024
$61 Million Saved on Public Transport Fares in Queensland
The Miles Labor Government's ongoing cost of living relief measures are continuing to benefit Queensland commuters, with over $61 million saved in the past year through fare freezes, discounts, and concessions.
The Miles Labor Government's ongoing cost of living relief measures are continuing to benefit Queensland commuters, with over $61 million saved in the past year through fare freezes, discounts, and concessions.
Over 130 million trips have been taken during this period, showcasing the tangible savings for commuters across the state's south east.
In December, the government announced a freeze on public transport fares for 2024, alongside other initiatives such as half-price travel for children aged 5-14, students, pensioners, veterans, seniors, job seekers, and asylum seekers. The ‘eight and half price’ initiative also provides a 50% discount after more than eight trips in a week.
Introduced in 2016, the Queensland Government's Fairer Fares package has saved Queenslanders approximately $427 million to date, with savings of around $5 million every month. The scheme benefits 93% of commuters, reducing zones from 23 to 8 and extending off-peak discounts, free weekend travel for children, and concession fares.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish highlighted that these measures were part of the largest cost of living relief package in Queensland’s history, which also includes investments in more frequent and reliable public transport services. He warned that these savings could be at risk under an LNP Government, who have refused to back Queensland's fair share of coal royalties.
