The 50c fare trial has had a greater impact on Logan than the broader south-east region, Translink data shows, with the number of local commuters surpassing pre-Covid levels.
Government data shows local commuters have saved more than $1.6 million in the first four weeks of the six-month trial alone.
The 50c fare trial, which covers all modes of public transport no matter the distance, was established in part to return patronage to pre-Covid levels after a huge drop-off during the pandemic.
Before the trial started, Logan’s bus service provider Clarkes Buses predicted more than 100,000 locals would save money due to the discount.
“We see this as an opportunity not only to assist with the cost-of-living crisis but as a step towards addressing the traffic congestion experienced daily throughout Logan City,” finance and performance manager Kaylee Clark said.
“The key benefits are the savings that can be achieved for the 106,000 weekly commuters that already travel across the Logan bus network.”
Records from the third and fourth weeks of the trial show Logan residents have increased their public transport usage by 12 per cent.
In contrast, patronage across south-east Queensland rose by only 2.4 per cent.
State-wide figures show there have been more than 15 million trips taken since 50 cent fares were introduced on 5 August.
The number of trips on the network is 14.5 per cent higher than a comparative period last year
• Light Rail: 18.6 per cent higher than the same period last year
• Ferries: 40.6 per cent higher than the same period last year
• Buses: 12.1 per cent higher than the same period last year
• Rail: 16 per cent higher than the same period last year
Weekends have so far recorded the highest growth.
Local Waterford MP Shannon Fentiman said it was great to see Logan locals getting around on 50c fares.
“These are encouraging results that are delivering real savings for our community, allowing them to save for a rainy day or put towards household essentials,” she said.
“I’ve met so many commuters at local bus stops and the Loganlea Train Station, including local mum Hayley and her daughter Ella who told me 50 cent fares ‘work for us – we love public transport, we catch it every day’.”
