One positive from the 2024 Queensland state election. Both Queensland Labor and the Liberal National Party of Queensland have pledged that 50 cent public transport fares (the trial started on August 5) will be made permanent.

While the commitment is welcome for public transport passengers, much more is needed including:

• Increased investment in physical infrastructure (particularly in regional Queensland);
• The speedy roll-out of the Smart Ticketing Project across Queensland;
• Improving transport options during weekends and public holidays fro regional Queenslanders.

One major issue post election will be the willingness of the incoming government to maintain the program over the medium term given the ongoing mantra of budget responsibility.

Media.

2024-09-15 Queensland government and LNP promise to make 50 cent public transport fares permanent. ABC News Online. Accessed 2024-09-17