Australian Bus & Coach wrote:
Free public transport in the NT extended until next year
Tiarna Condren
October 4, 2024, 9:08 am
The move comes as a response to the "unreliable and outdated" system that the NT has had in place
Free public transport in the Northern Territory has been extended until June next year as a way of combatting a “failure” of a system.
Free travel will be available across the Darwin, Casuarina, Palmerston, and Alice Springs public bus networks until June 30, 2025.
The decision follows ongoing technical issues with the ticketing system inherited from the previous government and comes as part of a broader review into the long-term future of the bus ticketing system, which has been plagued by failures, revenue loss and safety concerns.
Logistics and infrastructure minister Bill Yan says the current system was unreliable and outdated, with parts deemed “end-of-life” as far back as 2020.
“This is a total failure from the former Labor government, and another Labor mess we have had to clean up,” Yan says.
“Despite the Department of Infrastructure’s efforts to replace ticketing machines in October 2022, ongoing technical problems continue to disrupt fare collection and passenger data on up to 25 per cent of bus services.
“Revenue losses and safety concerns are two of the major issues plaguing our public transport because of the former government’s failure to properly implement a modern, efficient public transport system.
“Over the past year, thanks to the previous incompetent Labor government, the Northern Territory has lost about $1.1 million in revenue due to faulty machines and fare-related issues.”
Yan says these measures should provide some relief to drivers and security staff, who have reported a dramatic reduction in anti-social behaviour during periods of free travel.
“Alternative approaches are being explored, including a potential overhaul of the entire fare structure and improved technology for passenger tracking and data management while keeping the focus on making informed decisions that prioritise safety, reliability, and long-term financial sustainability.”
The public bus network remains a vital service for about 3.5 million passengers annually.
) Facebook page includes this excerpt, "As part of a system review to provide a modern and efficient public transport system for all Territorians, the department is exploring options for a bus tracking app." Read between the lines where you may, on this one. With the recent change of Government, it certainly suggests a (much-needed, IMO) potential change in the direction of public transport in the NT.