Free bus and ferry travel will continue across Tasmania for another 12 months under the 2026-27 state budget handed down today.
The measure was first introduced in March and has been extended as a key cost-of-living plank of Treasurer Eric Abetz’s budget.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said patronage had jumped since the policy began.
“Since free public transport was launched in March of this year Tasmanians have been responding with their feet,” Rockliff said.
“We have seen a significant uptick in patronage across the board and the 2026-27 budget backs this in by providing another year of free public transport.”
Rockliff said the measure let Tasmanians “get to where they need to go without the cost”.
Greens MLC and transport spokesperson Cassy O’Connor said the extension was welcome.
“The Greens have long called for public transport to be free and urged the government to take make this change to help struggling Tasmanians,” she said.
“It was clear cost of living pressure would continue beyond the government’s short-term commitment to free fares and more assistance was needed.”
The budget also funds new transport infrastructure alongside the fare freeze.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said $5 million had been set aside for new ferry terminals on the River Derwent.
“We are investing $5 million in our new ferry terminals, which will activate the natural infrastructure provided by the River Derwent and move Hobartians across the river with greater efficiency,” Vincent said.
Funding will also progress Hobart’s new rapid bus network.
“When working in partnership with existing buses and ferries, this new network will move thousands of Tasmanians each day to and from work, education and leisure,” Vincent said.
The transport spend sits within a broader budget forecasting an operating deficit of $596.7 million in 2026-27 and the loss of around 1,700 public sector jobs.
The free travel extension runs until mid-2027.
