The NSW government has ruled out free public transport despite renewed calls from the Coalition and the transport union, arguing it would lose “millions of dollars … every single day”.
It comes after Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced free travel throughout April, while Tasmania’s government has promised free buses and ferries until July as cost-of-living relief amid surging fuel prices.
On Sunday, the average price for unleaded petrol in NSW hit $2.50 per litre while the cost of diesel ticked over to $3.05 per litre, according to the state’s Fuel Check website.
Figures from the state government on Sunday revealed 229 service stations were without diesel and 66 had run out of all types of fuel as a result of the crisis triggered by the war in Iran.
On Saturday, there were 65 stations across NSW that had run out of all fuel types. (ABC News: Berge Breiland)
There are more than 2,400 service stations on the state government’s fuel check database, meaning less than 3 per cent have run completely dry.
Both the NSW Liberal Party and the transport union urged the state government to counter rising fuel costs by making public travel free, but Transport Minister John Graham insisted fares would remain in place.Â
He said the state would lose “millions of dollars for every single day” that public transport was free, adding that those funds would be needed in the future.
“This situation will last more than a month,” Mr Graham said.
“We need to keep our powder dry to be able to assist the broader economy.”
John Graham has ruled out free fares for Sydney commuters. (ABC News)
Mr Graham also said offering free travel could affect the government’s ability to provide additional public transport services, as demand increased.
“How can we make sure there are enough services to make sure people have that option of a cheap train fare, compared to the expensive car ride?” he said.
“That’s what we’re balancing here.”
Earlier on Sunday, NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane renewed calls to make public transport free over the Easter long weekend.
“Free public transport over the long weekend puts money back in families’ pockets and gives local businesses around NSW support when they need it most,” Ms Sloane said in a statement.
Kellie Sloane says free public transport over the long weekend puts money back in families’ pockets. Â (ABC News: Nick Dole)
She said on top of free public travel over the weekend, the opposition wanted the introduction of a fuel excise and support for legislation which would require retailers to publicly report and lock in maximum daily fuel prices.
“With petrol prices continuing to rise, and growing uncertainty of being able to fill up at the bowser, families deserve real relief,” she said.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW also doubled down on its push for the government to offer commuters free fares, or reduced fares during the fuel crisis.
Toby Warnes says the government has waited too long to act. (ABC News: Liam Patrick)
“The fuel crisis is already having a devastating impact on local workers, families and industries. The NSW government has a responsibility to act,” RTBU NSW secretary Toby Warnes said.
Mr Warnes said in addition to free or reduced fares, the union wanted to see additional train, bus and light rail services to meet demand.
“Queensland’s transport fares are essentially free year-round, Victoria and Tasmania are now giving free fares, but the people of NSW are missing out. That needs to change quickly,” he said.