Canberra’s public transport fares have been frozen instead of increased for the new financial year to help the community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic according to the Minister for Transport, Chris Steel.
Mr Steel said a freeze had also been put on other Territory charges including parking, business registration and development application fees.
“Many people rely on public transport to get around, and freezing bus and light rail fares will help to ease financial stress during this challenging time,” Mr Steel said.
“I encourage Canberrans to travel at off-peak times when it is cheaper, and to help reduce crowding on buses and light rail,” he said.
“Having a MyWay card is still the cheapest way to use public transport, as the card calculates the cheapest possible fare per passenger, based on any eligible concession and daily or monthly fare caps.”
Mr Steel said the official advice regarding public transport hadn’t changed and people should avoid travelling during peak times.
“Cash fares are still not being accepted onboard public transport vehicles,” he said.
“We are asking passengers to use MyWay cards or pre-paid tickets.”
He said that from Saturday, 18 July, the Network 19 update would commence, providing 692 extra bus services each weekday.
Mr Steel said the update would bring more direct routes, more frequent services and a large increase in off-peak services.
