Tram travel in Melbourne’s CBD and Docklands will be free and Zone 1 fares will apply across the entire metropolitan network under major reforms announced by Premier Denis Napthine today.
“For a full-fare commuter who currently buys a Zone 1 + 2 daily fare there will be a saving in the order of approximately $5.00 a day,” Dr Napthine said.
“A commuter who pays for a Zone 1 + 2 ticket each day will save around $1,200 each year, or, if using an annual myki pass, will save more than $750.
“Tram travel within the CBD and Docklands will be free in a move that will enhance Melbourne’s reputation as an international city.”
The changes will come into effect from the 1 January 2015 and will make public transport more accessible for commuters and tourists and make it easier to move around Melbourne.
This initiative will cost around $100 million per annum and will be accounted for in the upcoming State Budget.
People who begin and conclude their journey entirely within Zone 2 will continue to pay the current discounted fare.
Minister for Roads and Public Transport Terry Mulder said the free tram reforms build on the success of the City Circle tram, which has become a popular tourist attraction.
“Today’s announcement means all commuters, including tourists, will be able to travel anywhere within the CBD free of charge,” Mr Mulder said.
“This is just one of the many ways our Government is fixing Victoria’s public transport system and providing more services, to move more people, more often.”
Published in The Indian Sun (Indian Australian Magazine)
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