State governments must make public transport free for all Australians, as urgent cost of living relief must be top of the agenda ahead of national cabinet meeting today.
Worldwide fuel shock driven by conflict in the Middle East is placing significant pressure on households right across the country, with Australians paying more for petrol and groceries.
All state branches of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union are united in calling on our leaders to implement cost of living relief to give Australians the assistance they deserve in a time of global uncertainty, including free public transport. This support should extend to train station parking to ensure commuters have accessible and practical options for using public transport. "The budgets of working people and families are being strained more than ever and they're looking to our leaders for cost of living solutions - public transport must be central to the cost of living response," RTBU National Secretary Alex Claassens said.
"As a national cabinet meeting is held today to address the dire situation facing Australians, urgent action is needed to incentivise public transport use amid the global fuel crisis.
"Free public transport must be top of the agenda, and it must apply to every Australian. A national crisis demands a national solution.
"Victoria and Tasmania have already made the necessary steps and now it's time to see real leadership and make this happen for every worker, every family and every community across the country. We understand that every jurisdiction faces its own challenges, and the RTBU is ready to work constructively with state and territory governments to ensure any cost-of-living relief delivers real benefits for communities and our members.
"Public transport is an essential and practical part of our society and governments have the power to provide real relief. It is a sensible response to an immediate crisis and must be treated as such.
"Public transport is the fastest lever governments can pull - it reduces fuel demand and keeps workers connected to their jobs while easing pressure on supply chains that farming, freight and regional communities depend on.
"Cutting fares would deliver direct cost of living relief, reducing reliance on increasingly expensive fuel and increasing services will ensure the network can meet increased demand across the country."
