With the release of figures showing only a modest increase in the uptake of bus services since the introduction of half-price bus fares, it’s clear more must be done to improve Tasmania’s bus system. The Greens believe that to truly improve bus patronage, public transport must be free, frequent, predictable and reliable.
Whilst the real time tracking on the Metro App is a step in the right direction, the Liberal Government needs to show more love to Metro. Slashed bus services must be reinstated to get more people on buses.
In the greater Hobart area alone, most of the 180 bus services ‘temporarily cut’ more than a year and a half ago have not been reinstated. The Liberals needs to do more to ensure more bus drivers can be hired, and services extended.
Alongside more reliable services, the Liberal Government should make public transport free. When the Liberals trialled free public transport three years ago, the number of bus users dramatically increased.
Public transport is a basic service – it should be free and reliable. Tasmanians are struggling in this cost of living crisis, and by making public transport free, the Liberal Government can help Tasmanians make big cost savings.
Making public transport free doesn’t just benefit Tasmanians’ hip pockets. It reduces traffic congestion, makes buses safer for drivers, and has great impacts for the climate. It’s time the Liberals made this basic public service free and reliable.
