Transport unions hail announcement that 50 cent fares will stay in Queensland

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union and Transport Workers Union are hailing today’s announcment that 50 cent fares on Queensland public transport will be permanent under a Miles Government as excellent news for public transport users and the broader community.

Both unions have been actively involved in Queensland Union’s campaign calling on the government to keep 50 cent fares permanent following the implementation of the trial last month. A petition being promoted by the unions has reached over 22,000 signatures in just a few weeks and support is continuing to grow.

The campaign to keep fares 50cents had also garnered the backing of the International Transport-workers Federation, a global union federation representing over 16million transport workers worldwide.

A rally being organised in support of the petition that was scheduled for today will now be used to celebrate the milestone and turn attention to the opposition to also commit to the discount fares if elected in October.

Quotes attributed to Jared Abbott, Queensland Council of Unions, Assistant General Secretary:

“Affordable public transport is an integral part of any modern city. It allows people to access training, jobs and medical treatment. It keeps cars off the road, reduces traffic, increases productivity, and minimises climate impact. It also helps connect socially isolated people with their loved ones and attracts tourism, bringing money into Queensland.

“This is a fantastic announcement for Queenslanders”

Quotes attributed to Peter Allen, Rail Bus and Tram Union, Queensland State Secretary:

“‘50c fares will transform public transport in Queensland.

“Making trains, buses and ferries as affordable as possible is fundamental.

“We have seen Queenslanders embrace public transport in record numbers throughout this trial.

“We are excited about how 50 cent fares will change Queensland for the better.

“The Miles Government is doing what matters for Queenslanders”

Quotes attributed to Josh Millroy, Transport Workers Union, Director of Organising:

“The TWU welcomes today’s announcement as an exciting step for both passengers and drivers. This reform will continue to incentivise public transport usage resulting in better services, more jobs and less cars on our roads.”

Quotes attributed to Alana Dave, International Transport-workers Federation, Director of Urban Transport:

“It’s great to see the Queensland government pushing forward with affordable public transport, backed by the state Council of Unions. Sustainable public transport services need both strong labour standards for workers and accessible fares for passengers!”

“Public transport unions from around the globe are clear: sustainable funding arrangements are vital for our sector to provide reliable services for passengers that help connect people and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. That’s why the ITF has published a Manifesto on Sustainable Public Transport Investment, Funding and Fares, developed from the experiences of union struggles worldwide.

“The 50-cents initiative being piloted by the Queensland government is a great example of how public authorities are innovating to meet current social and environmental challenges.”

ENDS