Tasmania is moving closer to a state-wide smart ticketing system for its public transport network.
The tap-and-go system, provided by Cubic Transportation Systems, will allow passengers to pay for bus and ferry trips with a tap of their bank card, phone or watch.
Transport Minister Eric Abetz said the move will make boarding quicker and using public transport more convenient.
“You can use whatever payment method you have with you at the time, without the need for pre-loaded travel zones or top-ups,” he said.
“It won’t matter if you leave your travel card at home.”
The announcement comes as more than two million half-price bus trips have been taken since the 12-month reduced fare scheme launched in June.
“We continue to deliver half-price bus and ferry fares right across our network, helping to reduce the cost of living for Tasmanians,” Abetz said.
The agreement with Cubic leverages an existing partnership with the Queensland Government, giving Tasmania access to technology normally only available to larger states.
Over the next 12 months, the Tasmanian Government will work with Cubic to configure the product for the state and to conduct back-end and on-road testing.
It will then be rolled out to more than 300 buses across Tasmania and Derwent Ferries terminals.
