THE new State Labor Opposition has hit the ground running, focussing on holding the new Crisafulli LNP Government to account and ensuring the government focuses on the things that matter to Queenslanders, like cost of living relief.
As one of our first actions, we’ve introduced a draft law into the Queensland Parliament which is designed to make 50 cent public transport fares a permanent fixture of the state’s public transport system.
The aim of Labor’s proposed law is clear and ambitious – to cap public transport fares at just 50 cents per trip, ensuring affordability for all Queenslanders. If passed, this legislation will mean that no government can remove the 50 cent fare scheme without proper parliamentary debate and public consultation.
This initiative builds on the success of the existing 50 cent fares program, which has already delivered substantial cost-of-living relief to Queensland households, as well as significantly increasing public transport patronage.
As a former Labor Treasurer, I understand the pressures that rising costs place on families, particularly in our local community. It’s why I delivered the most significant cost of living relief package in our state’s history in the last State Budget, including $1,300 energy bill rebates and a 20% reduction in motor vehicle registration.
50 cent public transport fares were designed to put more money back into the pockets of everyday Queenslanders, and this initiative has delivered, with 50c fares saving commuters an estimated $181 million so far.
Sadly, while Queenslanders are still doing it tough, the new Crisafulli LNP Government has offered Queenslanders nothing when it comes to ongoing cost of living relief.
Labor’s draft law is likely to remain on the agenda of the parliament for future debate for at least six months.
During this time, the State Labor Opposition is encouraging Queenslanders to engage in this important debate, so a clear message can sent to the LNP government to keep 50 cent fares.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make affordable transport a right, not a privilege. Let’s work together to lock in 50 cent fares—forever.
