Victorian commuters will pay no more than $30 a week for public transport starting January 1, provided Labor wins the state election next month. Premier Ben Carroll announced the two-year cap on Monday, positioning it as a direct response to the recent fuel crisis.
The move follows a period of free travel and half-price fares introduced to ease pressure on households. It marks a significant shift in transport policy just weeks before voters head to the polls.
Myki Card Required
There is a catch. Transport Minister Vicki Ward clarified that the cap is only accessible via Myki cards, despite the government finishing the rollout of tap-and-go payments last week. “We’ve never advised people to throw out their Myki card,” Ward told reporters. “So I’d suggest they have a look in the back of the couch and find their Myki card if they need to.”
Ward promised tap-and-go compatibility would arrive “as quickly as possible” but refused to give a specific date. Concession card holders will see a $15 weekly cap, while existing benefits for children and seniors remain intact.
Cost and Criticism
The policy will cost the state $206 million over two years, ending in December 2028. Carroll claims it saves regular commuters up to $1,400 annually. “This is real important cost-of-living relief, in a time of rising interest rates and increased petrol prices,” he said.
However, the Greens are not impressed. Leader Ellen Sandell argued the measure is a temporary discount with an expiry date. “People are sick of paying more and getting less,” Sandell said. “We need more frequent, reliable and accessible trains, trams and buses that people can actually depend on.”
Equity Concerns
Experts warn the benefits may be skewed. Prof Hussein Dia from Swinburne University noted that frequent travelers in well-serviced areas will gain the most, while those in outer suburbs with poorer connections may see little relief. The Coalition, meanwhile, dismissed the pledge as untrustworthy, pointing to Labor’s history of raising tolls. Opposition leader Jess Wilson called the move “imitation” of their own $50 toll cap proposal.
Source: Guardian World
This article was compiled by the IndiaBBCNews editorial system from verified international news sources. Facts have been independently reviewed. Original reporting: Guardian World.
