THE countdown to the cheapest public transport fares in Queensland’s modern history is on with 50 days to go until 50 cent flat fares take effect.
The State Government will trial 50 cent public transport fares across the Translink network for six months from Monday, August 5.
During the trial Queenslanders will be able to travel on bus, train, ferry, tram, on demand services in South East Queensland, and all regional urban buses for just 50 cents.
Fares on Airtrain services will also be slashed to half-price for the same period, reducing fares to $10.95 when travelling from the city to Brisbane Airport and slashing worker tickets in half as well.
Cairns residents will benefit from the 50 cent fares as well, on the Translink-owned Sunbus service.
Public transport usage across all modes remains about 13 per cent below pre-COVID levels, but Translink will monitor usage on all services during the trial to help inform future decisions on the cost of public transport fares and service levels.
Queenslanders planning to use public transport for the first time during the trial are encouraged to visit the Translink website to find their best payment method and plan their journey in advance.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish said this trial will save Queenslanders money.
“Whether it is going to save someone more than $100 per week on their work commute, or just a few dollars here and there, this trial means money will stay in the pockets of Queenslanders,” he said.
“The rollout of Smart Ticketing is making it easier to pay for your journey, and the trial of 50c fares will make public transport more affordable.
“These investments and initiatives are designed to get more people onto public transport which will help to reduce congestion.”
Public transport users can also visit Translink’s Service Capacity Tracker to view a forecast of the space available on their service based on the day and time they are planning to travel.
More information on the six-month trial of 50 cent fares is also available on the Translink website.
Keep up with the latest news in Cairns and the Far North, and check out some of our top stories this week: Job creation program for First Nations Queenslanders and John Cole Toyota supports patient care.
