The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU), Sydney’s leading transport workers’ organization in New South Wales, demands that the state government eliminate public transport fares. Commuters increasingly opt for trains, trams, and buses over cars amid skyrocketing petrol costs linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Diesel prices surpass $3 per litre in certain areas, driving more people to public transport for daily travel. Compounding factors like elevated inflation and interest rates heighten cost-of-living strains, prompting the union to push for substantial fare cuts or complete temporary waivers.
Union Leader’s Call for Action
RTBU NSW branch secretary Toby Warnes proposed bold measures during a Sydney press conference. “We could reduce it to nothing for a period of time, or drop it to 50 cents, which has worked well in Queensland,” Warnes stated. “Get them out of their cars, give them cost-of-living relief, and use the fuel where we need it,” he emphasized.
Minister Rejects Fare Elimination
NSW Transport Minister John Graham quickly countered the demand, insisting Sydney’s public transport pricing stays equitable. “Public transport is a good alternative if you are worried about fuel prices,” Graham declared.
Current adult daily caps stand at $19.30 from Monday to Thursday and $9.65 on Fridays, weekends, and public holidays.
Estimates indicate Australians now pay roughly $30 extra per tank of unleaded petrol and $70 more for diesel compared to levels before the recent Middle East tensions escalated.
