No concessions in new public transport ticketing system trial

Go Cards could soon be a thing of the past with debit cards and smart devices to be used on some Brisbane train lines in a new trial. But there’s a catch for concession card holders.

Go Cards could soon be a thing of the past with debit cards and smart devices now able to be used on some of the state’s rail network in a new trial announced by the government.

But don’t throw away your Go Card just yet - especially if you’re a concession card holder.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on Saturday revealed a smart ticketing trial would begin next week where people can pay with a debit card or smart device.

“Travellers on the Ferny Grove line will be able to tap on and off with their Visa, Mastercard or American Express debit or credit card, or on a phone or watch.”

But at the official launch of the trial on Saturday, Transport Minister Mark Bailey revealed the new Smart Ticketing system doesn’t yet have a system in place for concession card holders.

Mr Bailey said those who use the new system would be charged the same price as an ‘adult’ Go Card holder.

General manager of strategy and technology Martin Bradshaw said there will eventually be a process where concession holders can set up an online account so that their chosen card is identified as a concession fair.

“So if someone’s a concession holder, and they rock up on Monday, they still have to pay the full fare,” Mr Bradshaw said.

“We would encourage anyone who’s a concession holder to still use their Go Card”.

Go Cards are likely to be phased out across South East Queensland. Picture: Tara Croser.

Mr Bradshaw couldn’t confirm when the Smart Ticketing system would make this update.

“If you’re travelling between Ferny Grove and Central you’ll be able to use your smartphone, smartwatch, your credit card, your debit card instead of your Go Card,” Mr Bailey said.

“This kind of smart ticketing system is being used around the world in London, New York and San Francisco”.

Although the new $371m ticketing system has already been trialled on the Gold Coast’s G:link the Minister said further trials were needed in different areas to integrate the new system.

Mr Bailey said the four year program aims to unite 18 different public transport payment systems across Queensland which will be beneficial for locals and tourists.

Buses will be the next mode of transport to be phased in to the trial.

The trial mirrors other states, with New South Wales rolling-out debit card payments on its public transport network in 2019.