Tasmanians will continue to travel on public buses and ferries without paying fares until at least June 2027 under a new commitment announced in the 2026-27 State Budget.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the extension of free public transport was aimed at easing household pressure as families continue to deal with rising living costs across the state.
The policy, introduced during the current term of government, applies to Metro Tasmania services as well as Kinetic regional routes. The government says public use has climbed sharply since fares were removed, with Metro patronage rising by more than 35 per cent and Kinetic services recording a 45 per cent increase.
Mr Rockliff said the extension would continue to help commuters, students, pensioners and regional travellers manage everyday expenses.
“Extending free public transport will help Tasmanians get to where they need to go without the cost,” he said.
“A passenger travelling from Launceston to Hobart on a Kinetic service, where the full adult fare is $33.60, will not be paying a cent.”
The government argues the policy has also encouraged more people to leave their cars at home, reducing traffic congestion while supporting access to work, education and services across the state.
Transport and social policy groups have broadly welcomed the continuation of free travel, saying it improves access for lower income households and people living outside major centres. At the same time, some economists and transport advocates have questioned whether fare free systems alone are enough to improve long term public transport use, arguing service frequency and regional coverage also need attention.
The state opposition has previously raised concerns about pressure on the budget and whether ongoing fare subsidies could affect future investment in transport infrastructure and service upgrades.
The government maintains the measure remains worthwhile as part of its wider cost of living response.
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