The Greens have unveiled a $165 million plan to make public transport free across the state while increasing service frequency and reliability, which would be delivered if they gain the balance of power in a new government.
Announced on Sunday by Greens Transport spokesperson Helen Burnet, the four-year funding package aims to address growing traffic congestion and cost-of-living pressures affecting Tasmanians.
“Properly resourced public transport is good for people and the economy. It’s a service that connects communities, and should be accessible for all Tasmanians,” Burnet said.
The proposal would split funding evenly between eliminating fares and improving services, with additional resources allocated to transport planning to ensure routes match population needs.
Burnet criticised the Liberal government’s approach to public transport, highlighting service reductions in 2023 and the upcoming return to full fares in metropolitan areas from July 1, following a period of 50% discounts.
“Having the 50% fares was fabulous but from the 1st of July that will return to full fare in metropolitan areas and that’s of real concern,” she said.
The Greens claim their plan could increase public transport usage by over 20%, citing international examples where free transit boosted ridership significantly.
“We know that not only do we reduce greenhouse gas emissions when we invest in public transport and get people onto public transit, but we also know that there’s greater benefits to reducing congestion,” Burnet said.
In response, Premier Jeremy Rockliff defended his government’s record on public transport affordability.
“We have supported Tasmanians when it comes to public transport. In fact, our budget, before it was stopped by Dean Winter, had half-priced bus fares for students, and the regional routes were half-priced as well,” Rockliff said.
