Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole has called on the Minns Labor Government to follow the lead of Victoria and Tasmania and immediately deliver free public transport across NSW throughout April.
Mr Toole said if other states can step up and provide real cost-of-living relief, there is no excuse for NSW Labor to leave families stranded.
“Families are being absolutely smashed right now,” Mr Toole said.
“Fuel prices are through the roof, groceries are up, power bills are climbing, and for many families just getting from A to B is becoming unaffordable.
“Victoria and Tasmania have acted. NSW should be doing the same.”
Mr Toole said free public transport throughout April, which includes Easter and the Anzac Day long weekend, would give families immediate relief while also encouraging people to get out, travel, and support local businesses.
“This is practical help that would put money straight back into people’s pockets,” he said.
“It would take pressure off household budgets, give people more confidence to travel, and provide a much-needed boost to local economies.”
Mr Toole said any package announced by the NSW Government must include regional rail and coach services such as XPT and TrainLink, not just city commuters.
“Regional families should not be left behind again,” Mr Toole said.
“People in the regions often have to travel further, spend more on fuel, and have fewer options. If Labor is serious about helping with the cost of living, then regional NSW must be part of the solution.”
Mr Toole said free travel throughout April, would also help struggling tourism operators, cafes, pubs, clubs, and retailers across regional NSW.
“This is a win-win,” he said.
“More people travelling means more people spending in our towns and more support for small businesses doing it tough. Free travel could be the difference between people getting out this April or staying at home all month.
“NSW families need help now – not another Labor excuse or delay. Chris Minns needs to stop dragging his feet and give people a break.”
