Aussie state with 50c public transport fares gives bang for your travel buck

If you're looking for a cheap and cheerful holiday, this state should be on your radar, thanks to their low-cost public transport promotion.

A couple of months back, Queensland introduced a trial of 50c flat rate trial across all zones and modes on the Translink network across the state.

Yep, just 50c, regardless of how far a passenger was travelling.

It includes all regional urban buses, and bus, train, ferry, tram and on demand services in South East Queensland.

It's been such a hit that both major parties have now committed to maintaining the flat rate 50c fares after the election this month.

50c ferry rides are just part of the fun.

When it was launched it was predicted commuters would save $150m over the six month trial period. 

The move was an attempt to restore public transport usage to pre-Covid levels.

When you consider that The Calile hotel in Brisbane was just named the Best Hotel in Oceania in the World's 50 Best Hotels list, all of a sudden Brissy is looking like a fun spot for a local jaunt.

The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. Picture: Supplied

Brisbane is not the first Aussie city to roll out cheap (or free) public transport following the pandemic

In Perth public transport was free for a month last summer. In March 2023 Victoria capped the  cost of a daily ticket on the entire regional train network at the same price as a metro daily fare, meaning you could travel across the state for $10.60. In Canberra they are currently in the midst of six weeks of free public transport.

Hot tip: you need to grab yourself a Go Card to make life easier

You can order yourself a Go Card online before you head to QLD on holiday.

On trams, ferries and trains, you can pay with bank cards or tap with your phone (but you must touch on touch off with the same credit card to avoid a fine). Commuters who forget to tap off will be slugged a $2.50 penalty during the 50 cent fare period.

On buses a Go Card or a pre-purchased paper ticket is required.

What about the airport train?

Airtrain fares to Brisbane Airport have also been cut in half, down to $10.95 for go cards and Smart Ticketing users, and $11 for paper ticket customers.

Originally published as Aussie state with 50c public transport fares gives bang for your travel buck