Premier Steven Miles last weekend announced a major expansion to all TransLink public transport fares of his landmark 50 cent fares initiative, if elected in October.
The LNP said it would also retain the cheap fares should it take office.
The 50 cent fare trial began just five weeks ago and Queenslanders have backed it with patronage levels across the South East increasing to their highest levels ever – a massive 19 per cent higher than in 2023 and 5.3 per cent higher than 2019 levels (pre-Covid).
It has also saved Queenslanders about $37 million in fares so far – that’s about $7.4 million in savings a week.
Half price Airtrain will continue for another six months while work is undertaken on the recently announced expansions for Brisbane Metro and discussions continue with Airtrain.
TransLink data shows that patronage in regional Queensland has also been boosted.
“Making public transport (almost) free is something I wanted to do for a long time,“ Premier Miles said.
“I said it was use it or lose it.
“Queenslanders across the South East and through the regions have backed it. They have voted with their feet in support of cheaper public transport and that’s good for everyone.“
“50 cent fares has been a monumental success,“ Transport Minister Bart Mellish said.
“Not only are we helping Queenslanders make massive savings on their travel week to week, we are also mapping where our services are most in demand.
“Using that information we can now better plan for new and expanded services and big infrastructure builds.
“Incredibly, the weekends have been a standout for patronage increases. Whether it’s a day trip with the kids or a safe trip home after the bar, there’s no better way to travel than on a 50 cent fare.“
