New research finds travel costs in Melbourne have surged over in the space of a year

MELBOURNE families are paying an extra $243.36 in fuel and $104 per year in public transport fares than they did for the same period last year, new data shows.

TRANSPORT costs have surged in Victorians over the last 12 months, with Melburnians now paying an extra $18 per week to move around the city.

A Melbourne family pays an additional $243.36 in fuel and $104 per year in public transport fares than they did for the same period last year, new analysis has shown.

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The Transport Affordability Index, compiled by the Australian Automobile Association, reveals the state capital is the second most expensive city in the nation for transport with annual costs equivalent to $19,810.

“Melbourne ranks third among the capital cities when transport costs are considered as a percentage of income,” RACV general manager of public policy Bryce Prosser said.

“While RACV acknowledges the capital investments being made into the public transport network, future fare increases must be fair and recognise the significant disruption passengers are experiencing.

RACV general manager of public policy Bryce Prosser.

“The index shows that while Victorian public transport fares increased the most out of all Australian cities, Victorian fares are still lower than New South Wales and Queensland, who are both expected to further increase their fares in July.”

Motorists have been slugged with a petrol excise of 40.9c per litre and the weekly cost of fuel in Melbourne has jumped to $69.58.

At the start of the year, Myki fares rose by 4.7 per cent across the public transport network pushing the price of a daily ticket up to $8.60.

Public Transport Users Association spokesman Daniel Bowen said short journeys were becoming less affordable.

“It is now $4.30 even for a tram trip of a few stops,” he said.

“That’s quite affordable from Pakenham into the city but it isn’t when you’re just going to the shops.

Daniel Bowen of the Public Transport Users Association (Victoria).

“It may discourage people from using public transport particularly if they’re travelling with a family.

“A short trip by train with the whole family can be expensive compared to getting in the car.

“Public transport needs to be an option for more travel or families will continue to incur the cost of having multiple cars.”

Melbourne continues remains the most expensive city for car loan payments, with a weekly cost of $124.66.