NT buses to be free in Darwin and Alice Springs

A major change is coming to the public bus network in Darwin and Alice Springs.

Public transport is set to get a lot easier for visitors and residents of Darwin and Alice Springs with fares on the network to be waived for all bus users the rest of the year.

A new ticketing system, designed to be faster and more reliable, is being installed but will not be activated until the new machines are fitted across the entire fleet.

Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Minister Eva Lawler said it was hoped the initiative would ease the financial stress for Territorians.

“We recognise that with fuel costs rising, there are households under additional financial pressure,” she said.

“By waiving bus fees for the next few months, we hope some of this pressure will ease.”

It comes just days after the government indicated they wouldn’t support a CLP bill that would result in fuel retailers reporting their profits.

Transport Minister Eva Lawler meets with bus drivers as they strike outside Parliament. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

Ms Lawler said removing fares coupled with the increase in powers for transit officers would hopefully attract more people to the network.

“Riding the bus should be a safe and attractive option for urban commuters,” she said.

“With the recent increase in powers for security and transit officers and now the provision of free travel, we hope to see more people become regular bus users.”