The ACT Legislative Assembly has voted down a motion from the Canberra Liberals to introduce 50-cent public transport fares amid rising fuel costs. Instead, an amended motion was passed, calling on the ACT government to consider offering free public transport for concession card holders.
The original motion, proposed by Canberra Liberals leader Mark Parton, aimed to reduce fares to 50 cents until mid-year to help residents cope with soaring fuel prices. Parton argued that fuel was an unavoidable cost, especially for those in outer-metropolitan and regional areas, and that the measure would cost less than $3 million.
Transport Minister Chris Steel introduced an amendment, which was approved, directing the government to consider free transport for concession card holders. The amendment also calls on party leaders and independent members to write to the prime minister requesting federal funding for free or low-cost public transport and a reduction in fuel excise.
During debates, the ACT Greens proposed an amendment to make public transport entirely free during the fuel crisis, but it was also voted down. Greens MLA Andrew Braddock argued that reducing fares would take pressure off fuel demand and called for a 25% tax on gas exports to fund better transport options.
Steel noted that the ACT government had already frozen public transport fares for five years, making them affordable. He encouraged Canberrans to consider alternative transport modes, including electric vehicles, but acknowledged the need to balance network capacity. Diesel prices have exceeded $3 per litre in parts of the ACT, while unleaded remains above $2.40.
The Canberra Liberals criticized the government's response, with Parton describing the situation as a chance to change behavior and increase public transport usage. Labor minister Tara Cheyne labeled the 50-cent fare idea as 'fanciful.' The assembly also agreed to lobby the Commonwealth for financial support.
