Public transport fares have dropped to 50 cents per trip across Queensland as one of the state government’s boldest pre-election cost-of-living initiatives goes live just months before the October election.
The initiative is expected to run for six months but could be extended.
Airtrain fares will be cut to $10.95 for Go Card and smart ticketing users and $11 for paper ticket customers.
The background: The Labor government is hoping cheaper fares will encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport with usage hovering around 13 per cent below pre-pandemic levels.
The key quote: “Your regular bus or train might be a little busier from today, but I want to assure Queenslanders that we will be keeping a close eye on our networks at every step.” — Premier Steven Miles.
What else to know: The initiative is expected to cost $150 million and will help the state government gauge where improvements to public transport access can be made.
Extra services will also run.
What happens next: Miles has flagged that a flat fare or reduced fare could become a permanent fixture if future public transport usage exceeds pre-COVID-19 level.