Election ploy or lifeline? Queensland to introduce 50 cent public transport fare

Steven Miles’ latest initiative aims to put more money in commuters’ pockets and ensure another term for the Labor government amid accusations of pre-election vote-buying.

Premier Steven Miles at the Mango Hill Train Station with 50c as he announces the public transport initiative. Picture: Annette Dew

Public transport charges will be cut to a 50c flat rate right across Queensland ahead of Oct­ober’s state election.

In a six-month trial announced by Labor Premier Stephen Miles on Sunday, the “almost free” fare will run from August 5 through to the new year on the state’s TransLink services.

It comes amid warnings by the opposition that the Queensland Premier is trying to buy votes with a pre-election big spend that will send the state $3bn into debt.

The state election is set for October, and Mr Miles has already announced a $1000 energy rebate.

The 50c public transport initiative is the latest effort to try to put more money into Queenslanders pockets, while trying to ensure another Labor term for the state.

“For someone catching the train to work in Brisbane from here in Mango Hill, it costs up to $96 a week,” Mr Miles said.

“And if you drive to work, you’re stuck in peak hour traffic every day and paying a lot more than that. It’s why I’m making all public transport fares a flat 50c – no matter where you live, your mode of travel, or how far you go.

“It’s as close to free as you can get.”

Mr Miles said as an example, the amount of money people from Mango Hill who used public transport to get to the city and back would be saving the best part of $100 a year.

“From 5 August, 2024, that same trip from Mango Hill to the City and back would only cost $5 for the whole week – that’s nearly $90 back in your pocket every week,” he said.

“I expect this will save Queenslanders thousands of dollars over six months, and encourage more people to catch our fast, frequent and 50c public transport.

“Encouraging more Queenslanders to jump on a bus or train to get to work or school will help bust congestion.”

Updated estimates unveiled in parliament early last week highlighted what was initially projected to be $122m surplus in 2024-25 would instead wind up a $3bn deficit

Economist Saul Eslake recently labelled Mr Miles spending spree as “pre-election pork-barrelling” that will likely add “inflationary pressures” in the future.

Brisbane TransLink trains will cost commuter only 50 cents come August Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen

He also said the Premier was “just throwing money around in the hope of buying votes” in the lead-up to the election.

“This initiative will importantly mean money in the pockets of families across Queensland,” Mr Miles said.

“We hope that it will provide a great opportunity for active transport.

“Walk from home to your nearest train or bus stop as you head out for a night at Howard Smith Wharves, Surfers Paradise, or the Valley for a fun evening with your mates.

“Enjoy a walk to the closest bus stop with your family and friends as you head out to school sporting activities, visiting grandparents, or a lovely Sunday picnic.

“We’ve got a growing state with more and more cars on our roads every day.

“This initiative is a great way to encourage more people to use public transport.”

All TransLink public services consisting of bus, rail, tram and ferry passage will be eligible for the 50c fares when the initiative gets under way.