Temporary free public transport to deliver cost of living relief

Basil Zempilas MLA
‍Leader of the Opposition

‍Sandra Brewer MLA
‍Shadow Treasurer

‍Steve Martin MLC
‍Shadow Transport Minister

The Opposition is calling on the State Government to deliver immediate cost-of-livingrelief to Western Australians by making public transport free from June 1 until the end ofthe year.

With West Australians experiencing the highest inflation in the country, this proposal could save commuters up to $784 over the next seven months by removing a regular,unavoidable expense.

The policy is estimated to cost approximately $115 million and could be funded fromthe Perth Parking Levy (PPL) surplus, a fund specifically established to supporttransport alternatives and reduce reliance on car travel into the Perth CBD.Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas said the measure would put money back intohousehold budgets immediately.

“Free public transport across the board removes a core weekly cost and delivers real,immediate relief for West Australians,” he said.

“It also gives people a genuine alternative to driving, helping households manage risingfuel and living costs while staying connected to jobs, education and community life.“Perth businesses have paid into the PPL for years, so this is a practical way to returnvalue and bring more people into the CBD, supporting the local economy.”

Shadow Treasurer Sandra Brewer said the policy was timely and a temporary responseto rising cost pressures.“With inflation running at 4.9 per cent, households are under increasing strain,” she said.

“This is a practical measure that delivers immediate relief and reduces everyday costs.”

Shadow Transport Minister Steve Martin said the initiative was the right short-term response to provide immediate cost of living relief.

“We know that taxpayers have made a significant capital investment in expanding thepublic transport network in recent years, and this temporary measure, paid for by anexisting underutilised fund, provides an avenue for more commuters to make use of that network as a way to save on out-of-pocket costs,” he said.

“We think this measure is the right short-term response to help more Western Australians navigate the exceptional costs arising from the fuel crisis, and it may also help alleviate demand at the bowser for those who remain reliant on fuel.

”The Perth Parking Levy remains in a strong financial position, with projected balancesgrowing from $192 million in 2025–26 to $300 million by 2028–29.This policy would draw on only a portion of those funds, providing cost-of-living reliefwhile encouraging greater use of public transport.

‍MEDIA CONTACT: Graham Mason | 0419 194 792