Today’s announcement the Tasmanian Government will make all public transport free will be welcome relief for Tasmanians already struggling and now facing rising fuel prices. The Greens last week called for the Premier to take this action, and we’re glad he has responded to the need in the community.
Free and reliable public transport is something the Greens have been calling on for years. The Premier’s announcement also needs to be matched with a reinstatement of cut bus services.
Last week, after a Greens question in Parliament, we heard 120 bus routes still remain out of operation. The reinstatement of these cut bus routes is likely to become more urgent as prices rise, as people will increasingly need to have an alternative to their own car.
Free public transport not only helps with the cost of living crisis, we also know it creates a healthier and more functional Tasmania. Ultimately, the government needs to prioritise putting more funding into the budget for expansion of public transport services.
This is a positive first step. We hope the government listens to the widespread calls from the community sector for emergency and long-term increasing support for the work they do to help struggling Tasmanians.
