The Victorian Greens are calling on Labor to make public transport permanently free, as Tasmania considers making its free fares trial permanent following a massive 37% surge in bus patronage.
The call comes as Victorians brace for another interest rate rise tomorrow, with new inflation data showing petrol prices have skyrocketed by around 35% in just three months, putting further pressure on household budgets.
The Greens say that with the federal government ruling out another fuel excise cut, the Victorian Government should provide immediate and permanent cost-of-living relief by making all trains, trams and buses free.
As stated by Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell:
“Victorians are getting absolutely smashed from every direction. Petrol prices are through the roof, rents and groceries keep rising, and mortgage holders are bracing for yet another interest rate rise.
“Trump’s war has sent fuel prices soaring, and ordinary Australians are paying the price. The Premier can’t control Donald Trump or global oil prices, but he can control what Victorians pay to catch a train, tram or bus.
“If you’re spending hundreds of dollars filling up the car, being able to jump on a train or tram for free is real cost-of-living relief. We’re talking about around $220 a month back in the pocket of a regular commuter.
“Tasmania is now considering making public transport permanently free after bus trips surged 37%. Victorians have already had a taste of free public transport. Why should they have to start paying again when the cost-of-living crisis is only getting worse?
“The Greens have a plan to make public transport permanently free across Victoria, paid for by making big banks and gambling corporations pay their fair share. Instead of squeezing more money out of struggling households, it’s time to make the big corporations cough up.”
