QLD government to freeze public transport fares in 2024

Commuters could save up to $200 next year under a bold plan by one state government to freeze public transport fares.

Commuters could save up to $200 next year under a bold plan by the Queensland government to freeze public transport fares for 2024.

Treasurer Cameron Dick revealed the new initiative on Wednesday as part of the state government’s 2023-24 mid-year budget update.

Mr Dick, who was recently made Deputy Premier, said the freeze was an “important step” and would be in place for a full calendar year.

“The strength of our balance sheet enables us to deliver more cost of living relief for Queensland. I’m really pleased about that,” he said.

“These changes are not as big as the electricity bill rate rebates, but every dollar you don’t have to spend at a time like this is important.”

Treasurer Cameron Dick said the state government would be feezing public transport fares. Picture: Glenn Campbell NCA NewsWire

Mr Dick said that commuters who travel across two public transport zones for work could save as much as $65 a year due to the freeze.

For those commuting from the Gold Coast to Brisbane for work, Mr Dick said the transport freeze would save them more than $210 a year.

Mr Dick also revealed that the state government had slashed its forecast budget deficit by $2 billion, while focusing on cost of living.

On Tuesday, Deputy Premier Steven Miles announced the government would also freeze car registration payments for the 2024-25 financial year.

The announcement comes only days after Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk’s shock resignation after eight years in the top job.

She will step down as Premier next week, and will leave parliament at the end of the month.

She will be replaced by Mr Miles, with Mr Dick confirmed as his deputy and running mate at the next state election in October.

Steven Miles will be the next Premier of Queensland . Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Mr Dick revealed he had been a potential candidate for the role of premier, but had decided Mr Miles was the “best person” for the job.

“My view is around who is the best person to lead this state forward. I thought that I might have the capability to do that,” he said.

“When I canvassed across the party, the trade union movement, (and) talking in the community, it became clear Steven had overwhelming support of the party.

“That then weighed heavily decision that I had to make. But, when Steven asked me to be his deputy, that was a big step forward.”

Originally published as QLD government to freeze public transport fares in 2024