3 July 2026
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is further progressing bus safety reforms.
These reforms finalise the procurement of a modern ticketing system and ensure the community is well prepared before affordable fares are reintroduced.
This will help deliver a safer, smarter and more reliable public transportation network.
The CLP Government will continue free public bus travel until January 2027 as it nails down its commitment to maintain affordable public transport while delivering a safer, smarter and more reliable network
Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said extending free fares would allow the Government to complete procurement of a modern ticketing system, consult with relevant stakeholders, and ensure the community is well prepared before affordable fares are reintroduced.
"We want to get this right.
"Continuing free fares until January 2027 gives us the time to deliver a modern ticketing system, engage with the community and make sure the transition is simple for passengers."
Mr Yan said the Government remained committed to maintaining affordable public transport while delivering a safer, more reliable network.
"The next stage of reform isn't just about introducing ticketing. It's about building a public transport system that is safer, smarter and works better for Territorians.
"A modern ticketing system will provide valuable information about passenger travel patterns, helping the Government better plan routes, improve services and respond to future demand across the network.
"It will also support the long-term sustainability of the bus network while complementing the significant safety improvements already delivered by the CLP Government," Minister Yan said.
Since coming to Government, the CLP has introduced a range of reforms to improve safety for drivers and passengers, including:
installing protective driver screensintroducing direct radio communication between drivers, Transit safety officers and Policeinstalling driver duress alarmsexpanding CCTV coverage at key locationsstrengthening Transit Officer powersintroducing Police Public Safety Officersclosing the former Casuarina and Darwin Bus Interchanges
These reforms are contributing to improved safety across the network, with reported incidents continuing to trend downward.
Mr Yan said the Government would continue working closely with drivers, passengers, industry and the community throughout the transition.
"When Labor's ticketing system failed, instead of fixing the problem they tried to dress it up as a cost of living measure. The reality is Territorians were left without a long-term solution, while bus drivers were forced back to handling cash, exposing them to an increased risk of assault and abuse.
"When we came to Government, we acted immediately. We worked with the Transport Workers' Union to protect drivers by installing security screens across the fleet, removing the need for drivers to carry cash and delivering the safety reforms Labor failed to implement.
"We've always said we would take the time to deliver the right long-term solution, not the quickest one.
"This next stage builds on the reforms we've already delivered and will ensure Territorians have a public transport system that is affordable, safer, supported by modern technology and built for the future."
