Tasmanian Labor is calling for free Metro travel for students and concession card holders as many families continue to struggle because of COVID-19.
Deputy Labor Leader Michelle O’Byrne said the end of the fare amnesty will be a burden for many Tasmanians.
“The fare amnesty introduced by Metro provided much-needed relief for Tasmanians doing it tough because of COVID-19,” Ms O’Byrne said.
“But, with thousands of people still out of work, the return of fares on 6 July is an additional burden for many.”Even before the pandemic, TASCOSS had identified Metro fares as unaffordable for many low-income earners – a situation that has only worsened since March.
“As students head back to school on Monday, this will become even more of a burden for struggling families and must be addressed.
“Kids shouldn’t miss out on school because they can’t afford to get there. After this year’s education disruption, we need to make sure we don’t put new barriers in the way of school engagement and student outcomes.”
Ms O’Byrne said Labor is calling for an extension of free travel on Metro buses during the course of COVID-19, for concession card holders and students travelling to local schools.
“Free bus travel for students and concession card holders would provide a helping hand for those who need it most, to get children to school and to get people to and from work.
“Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package calls for improvements to the affordability of, and access to, public transport across the state, to help people re-enter the workforce.
“While Tasmania is in a good place with the pandemic, we must not forget the people who are still doing it tough through no fault of their own. They should be given the help they so badly need to get them through these difficult times.”
Michelle O’Byrne MP
Deputy Labor Leader
