Victoria Makes Public Transport Free Amid Rising Fuel Costs Linked to Middle East Supply Disruptions

Victoria Makes Public Transport Free Amid Rising Fuel Costs Linked to Middle East Supply Disruptions
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The State of Victoria government has announced that all public transport in the region, including Melbourne and Geelong, will be free for one month from March 31 through April 30 as a temporary measure to ease financial pressure on households amid soaring fuel prices tied to global tensions and supply challenges. The policy covers trains, trams and buses across metropolitan and regional services.

Officials said the initiative aims to encourage commuters to shift from private cars to public transport to reduce fuel demand and household travel costs during the ongoing fuel crisis. Fuel prices in Australia have risen sharply, with petrol nearing $3 per litre, and hundreds of service stations reporting shortages of one or more fuel types.

Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan confirmed the move will cost the state around AUD 71 million in lost fare revenue, which the government will absorb as part of broader cost‑of‑living support measures. Commuters will not need to use Myki cards to access services, as ticketing systems will be set to waive charges automatically during the free period.

The decision follows similar action by the State of Tasmania, which is offering free buses and ferries until July 1. Other states, including New South Wales and South Australia, have declined to adopt the policy so far.