FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORT: TURNS OUT IT WAS POSSIBLE
The Government’s announcement of free public transport for Tasmanians from tomorrow is most welcome.
The Premier has heard it loud and clear from MPs across the Parliament that Tasmanian students, families and commuters are feeling the pain at the bowser and this alternative for some to hop on a bus is welcome.
Yesterday I spoke with a university student who was considering using the ferry and bus in lieu of driving to the UTAS Sandy Bay campus. This will be a great incentive for him and other students across Hobart and the state.
Whilst this is a good response, it is important to ensure buses are reliable, regular and frequent. So, part of the equation is to ensure buses are available, and on time.
We don’t know what might happen in the Persian Gulf by July, but there is no doubt that the impacts of the war and the cost-of-living pressures will continue beyond July 1. I’m sure continuing free buses would be welcomed.
The Premier’s announcement represents a demand-focussed response to the current fuel crisis. It’s not just about shoring up supply.
Tasmanians are in a cost-of-living crisis. They are spending more at the bowser, and this is just one option available to the government that reduces some of the ballooning costs but also the reliance on imported fuel.
We don’t know how long the impacts of the US / Israel war in Iran will continue to be felt in Tasmania. But we do know that relief for Tasmanian commuters through this crisis and likely beyond will still be necessary.
The recent International Energy Agency Report had ten simple solutions to reduce demand on fuel supplies and included
Working From Home
Public transport
Active Transport
Using fuel alternatives such as electric for both travel and cooking