From Monday 5 August 2024 until Sunday 9 February 2025, the Queensland Government is rolling out an exciting initiative to make public transport more affordable and accessible for Queenslanders. During this six-month trial period, all public transport fares across Queensland will be a flat 50 cents per journey, no matter how far you travel (conditions apply). This initiative is part of a $150 million investment aimed at easing cost of living pressures and promoting public transport usage.
The 50 cent fare applies to all modes of public transport under the Translink network. This includes buses, trains, ferries, trams, and on-demand services in both south east Queensland and regional Queensland. So, whether you’re commuting within the city or travelling across the region, you’ll only need 50 cents per trip. There’s never been a better time to bus about and save, especially on select Translink bus routes in Rockhampton, Yeppoon and Gladstone. This includes bus routes 440, 441, 442, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448, 450 and 451, in Rockhampton and Yeppoon, and 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 510 in Gladstone, which are operated by CDC Queensland
Planning your journey has never been easier. The Translink website offers tools like the Journey Planner and the Service Capacity Tracker to help you determine the best mode of transport and optimal travel times. The Journey Planner provides detailed routes and schedules, while the Service Capacity Tracker gives real-time information on space availability, helping you avoid crowded services.
Anna Tyben, General Manager, CDC Queensland, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential to benefit both daily commuters and leisure travellers.
“This 50 cent fare initiative is a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors alike in Queensland to experience the convenience and affordability of public transport.
“Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the beautiful regions on our CDC Gladstone, Rockhampton and Yeppoon urban services, now is the perfect time to make the switch to public transport,’ she said.
The primary goal of this trial is to boost public transport patronage, which is currently at 87 per cent of pre-COVID levels across south east Queensland. By offering such an affordable fare. The Queensland Government hopes to encourage more people to use public transport, thereby reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact. Another significant objective is to encourage off-peak travel, particularly on weekends. The reduced fare aims to motivate residents and visitors to explore new areas and travel for new reasons, promoting a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to enjoy the region.
Translink will be closely monitoring the trial to ensure smooth operation and address any issues that arise. They encourage customers to use the Service Capacity Tracker to plan their journeys and avoid crowded services. A slight adjustment in travel time can significantly impact your travel experience, providing more comfortable and less crowded trips.
The six-month 50 cent fare initiative represents a significant step towards making public transport more accessible and affordable for all Queenslanders. By encouraging more people to use public transport, the initiative aims to improve overall patronage levels, reduce congestion, and support environmental sustainability. The trial will end on 9 February 2025, and the Queensland Government will analyse the data collected to inform future decisions regarding public transport fares and services.
For more information and to plan your journey, visit the Translink website. Enjoy your travels across Queensland for just 50 cents per journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find more information on the trial?
Detailed information about the initiative is available on the Translink website.
Which Translink bus routes operated by CDC Queensland in Gladstone, Rockhampton and Yeppoon are included?
The 50 cent fare applies to select Translink bus routes in:
- Rockhampton and Yeppoon urban routesꟷnumbers 440, 441, 442, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448, 450 and 451
- Gladstone urban routesꟷnumbers 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 510.
These bus routes are operated by CDC Queensland.
CDC operates bus services on the Sunshine Coast. Why are these not mentioned?
The initiative applies to contracted operators on Translink public timetable services. CDC’s Sunshine Coast services currently include school bus and charter operations only.
Will this fare apply to regional Queensland?
Yes. The 50 cent fare applies to Translink network bus services in regional Queensland.
Can I pay cash on regional bus services?
Yes. You can continue to pay onboard buses with cash.
Are there any further discounts during this period?
No further discounts apply during this period.
Do I need to show my concession cards/ID?
No. During this trial, you will not need to show proof of concession as all fares will be a flat 50 cents.
How do I stay informed?
Customers can stay updated about services and any changes during the trial by downloading the Translink App, visiting the Translink website, or calling their customer service line at 13 12 30. Conditions Apply. Some public transport routes are not included in the 50 cent fare initiative. Refer to the Translink website for these details.
