The Tasmanian government is claiming a win with lower public transport fares leading to a modest increase in patronage.
Public transport fares are being halved for 13 months through to 30 June 2025.
Derwent Ferries carried 12,756 passengers in the month of June which was a 13.5 per cent increase on the same month in 2023. In July 14,388 passenger trips were made which is 27.8 per cent higher than July 2023.
In June, Metro provided 654,088 passenger trips; a 7.1 per cent decrease on the previous year. Metro carried 656,870 passengers in July which is 4.8% higher than in July 2023 (state-wide figures).
“Importantly this initiative, which is providing cost-of-living relief for Tasmanian households, has been rolled out across all public transport providers across the state including Metro, Tassielink, Kinetic, Manions’ Calows and Area Connect,” said Transport Minister Eric Abetz.
The Greens however view the figures as somewhat disappointing, noting that in the March 2022 free public bus trial, numbers of bus users increased 15%.
“The Greens have been fighting for public transport to be free across Tasmania,” said transport spokesperson Helen Burnet.
“Not only would free trips increase uptake, but improved frequency, reliability, predictability and accessibility are critical. They are the cornerstones of success for public transport.”
Burnet also cautioned against cuts in the upcoming budget that would weaken Metro.
“Metro Tasmania are still unable to reinstate the 180 services cut across greater Hobart last year, due to continuing staffing shortages,” she said.
“With bus workers poised to take industrial action, it’s clear that a pay increase and better conditions are needed to give Tasmanians the stable bus system they need.”
Labor did make any comment in relation to the patronage figures released.
