Buses and trains are free to ride in Central Victoria for another month.
That pledge was made over the weekend by the state government, which is extending its statewide no-cost public transport offer until May 31st.
In a statement confirming the initiative’s extension, Premier Jacinta Allan said the move was about helping Victorians who are under pressure.
“I know this won’t solve every problem, but it’s another step I can take to help Victorians right now,” Ms Allan.
Victoria’s free public transport offer was announced last month in the wake of rising fuel prices, driven by conflict in the Middle-East and increased demand.
The scheme was originally due to last until April 30th, but its popularity with voters and the sky-high costs of petrol and diesel appear to have forced the government’s hand.
Meantime, the Premier has also confirmed that public transport fares will be half-price from June 1st through until the end of the year.
The government expects this change will cost $432 million dollars, which has been accounted for in the 2026-27 state budget – due to be handed down next month.
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