The New South Wales government has ruled out making public transport free despite mounting pressure from the opposition and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) as fuel prices surge. Transport Minister John Graham stated that fare-free travel would cost the state "millions of dollars for every single day" and could hinder the government's ability to add services to meet increased demand.
The calls for free public transport follow similar moves in Victoria and Tasmania, where governments have introduced temporary fare-free travel to provide cost-of-living relief. Victoria will offer free public transport throughout April, while Tasmania has promised free buses and ferries until July. In Queensland, public transport fares are already effectively free year-round.
On Sunday, the average price for unleaded petrol in NSW hit $2.50 per litre, with diesel reaching $3.05 per litre, according to the state's Fuel Check website. The fuel crisis, triggered by the war in Iran, has also led to shortages, with 229 service stations without diesel and 66 completely out of fuel. However, less than 3% of the state's 2,400 service stations have run dry.
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane renewed calls for free public transport over the Easter long weekend, arguing it would put money back in families' pockets and support local businesses. She also advocated for a fuel excise and legislation requiring retailers to report and lock in maximum daily fuel prices. RTBU NSW secretary Toby Warnes described the situation as an "urgent call," emphasizing that the fuel crisis is devastating workers, families, and industries.
Minister Graham countered that the crisis would last more than a month and that maintaining fares is necessary to fund future transport needs. He questioned how the government could ensure enough services to provide a cheap train fare option compared to expensive car travel. The union, however, insists there is spare capacity in the network and has called for additional train, bus, and light rail services to meet potential demand.
