Yahoo Finance Public transport fare hike to hit millions from July 1
Sydney public transport fares will increase by 3.6 per cent next week.
NSW residents will face higher public transport fares from next week when Opal prices increase by an average of 3.6 per cent. It’s the second price hike dealt to commuters in less than 12 months.
Adult train and metro trips will increase by a maximum of 49 cents, bus and light rail trips by up to 27 cents, while ferry trips will go up as much as 43 cents. After discounts and caps are applied, it’s estimated the increase will equate to be less than $1 per week.
Youths and concession card holders will have train and metro trips increase up to 24 cents, bus and light rail up to 14 cents and ferry trips up to 22 cents.
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Transport for NSW secretary Josh Murray said the changes were in line with annual inflation and the state’s independent pricing and regulatory tribunal.
“Each year, fares are reviewed to ensure the network can continue to operate sustainably, keeping up with increased operating costs including fuel, electricity, maintenance, and staffing,” Murray said.
The weekly fare caps will continue to stay the same at $50 for adults, $25 for child/youth and concession card holders. Seniors and pensioners will continue to be charged no more than $2.50 a day.
In October, Opal fares went up by an average of 3.7 per cent. The government also scrapped the Weekly Travel Reward, which allowed passengers to get half-priced travel after reaching eight paid trips. This was replaced with an extension of weekend fares to Friday’s.
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Higher fares coming for other Aussies
Adelaide residents will also be hit with higher fares from July 1. Fare prices will increase by approximately 3 per cent across all Adelaide Metro bus, train and tram services.
Unlike other states, Adelaide has no zone systems, meaning passengers pay the same amount regardless of the distance travelled.
From next week, the price of a regular metroCard fare will increase by 15 cents from $4.25 to $4.40 a trip during peak travel times.
The price hikes come as Queenslanders prepare for lower public transport fares. From August 5, the government will be slashing all fares to 50 cents for a six month trial period.
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