Tasmanians can now travel on public buses for free as part of a temporary measure aimed at easing cost-of-living pressure and reducing the impact of rising fuel prices.
The free travel period began on 30 March and will run until 1 July, covering bus services across the state as well as the Derwent River Ferry. The initiative applies to services operated by providers including Metro, Kinetic and Tassielink Transit. A one-way trip between Hobart and Launceston, which would usually cost around $34, is now free.
The Tasmanian Government said the measure is intended to help families, students, workers and older residents who rely on public transport for regular travel.
Bridget Archer said many older Tasmanians depend on buses to get to town, attend appointments and stay connected with their communities.
She said removing fares would allow people to put that money towards other expenses during a period of rising household costs.
The free travel arrangement comes as fuel prices remain under pressure following recent instability in global energy markets. The Tasmanian Government has linked the measure to broader efforts to reduce the burden on households and encourage more people to leave their cars at home.
Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said the scheme could save commuters between $20 and $88 a week, depending on how often they travel. Students travelling to school by bus could save around $10 a week.
Tasmania previously introduced free bus travel for five weeks in 2022 when fuel prices climbed above $2.20 a litre. Reports at the time suggested the measure cost taxpayers around $2 million. The government has not yet released an estimated cost for the current program.
Reaction from the community has been mixed. Some people have welcomed the move as practical support during a period of rising living costs, while others have questioned whether bus services have the capacity and reliability to handle higher demand. Several online comments pointed to concerns about cancellations, driver shortages and reduced services in some areas.
Tasmania’s public transport network has faced ongoing pressure in recent years, particularly in regional areas and around Hobart. Plans for a larger rapid bus network in Greater Hobart remain under development, with no confirmed construction timeline yet announced.
The free travel period will continue until 1 July, with the government encouraging Tasmanians to make use of buses and ferry services during that time.
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