The ACT Greens are calling for two months of free public transport in Canberra during this extraordinary fuel crisis following similar moves by the Tasmanian and Victorian governments.
"Canberrans are at a loss with the rapid increase in the costs of fuel and questions over whether fuel will even be available at the pump," said Andrew Braddock, ACT Greens Spokesperson for Transport.
"Free public transport will reduce fuel demand and save thousands of dollars for those who are struggling to put food on the table," said Mr Braddock.
"In the middle of a fuel crisis, it's the least the government can do."
Last week, ACT Labor and the Canberra Liberals teamed up to vote against free public transport funded by a 25% tax on gas exports.
"This was a sensible, climate conscious solution which would've brought immediate relief to all Canberrans. Instead, the major parties ganged up to vote this down, putting the needs of Canberrans firmly behind their own.
"It's time for the ACT Government to rise to this moment and join the growing number of states around Australia making public transport free during the fuel crisis."
"In uncertain times like these, ACT Labor shouldn't be looking out for their mates in the fossil fuel industry. They should be empathising with Canberrans and working to ease their cost-of-living pressures.
"If we can afford fare-free Fridays, we can afford two months of free travel during this fuel crisis.
"Public transport in the ACT has been under-done for decades. It needs a significant amount of investment, and a commitment from the Government to get the network moving.
"We can start that here and now with free public transport for the period of the crisis, and permanently for students, seniors and other concession-holders who need ongoing cost of living relief.
"The Commonwealth should also be chipping in. If they can drag the chain on renewable energy, while signing us up to an illegal war in Iran, they can help pay for the consequences faced by Australians."
