Public transport fares have been slashed to 50 cents across Queensland as cost of living pressures continue to hit household budgets.
The state government’s pre-election pledge has seen fares reduced to a 50c flat rate across all zones and modes on the state’s Translink network.
That includes all regional urban buses, and bus, train, ferry, tram, and on-demand services in south-east Queensland.
Airtrain fares have also been reduced, with tickets starting from $10.95.
The lower fares will be in place for six months.
Premier Steven Miles, who joined the morning rush on the first day of the half-year trial, said he had received good feedback on the initiative.
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“Everyone I have spoken to this morning on the train and here at central station has been really positive,” Miles told 9News Queensland.
Travellers can use credit cards or smartphones to pay on trains, ferries and trams.
However, cards are required for the bus network due to ongoing delays and a $22 million cost blowout with the smart ticketing program.
“We announced in the budget a slight increase to the budget of the smart ticketing project going forward this is about getting it done, this is about keeping those staff on,” Transport Minister Bart Mellish said.
A spokesperson for the state government said it needed to see the results of the trial before making any decision about whether or not 50 cent fares will become permanent.
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