By JESSE GRAHAM
STUDENTS will benefit from cuts to public transport fares in the coming year, with around $5 a day set to fall for some transport users in the Yarra Ranges.
As of 1 January 2015, the public transport system will shift, with Zone 2 being abolished and prices for daily travel becoming uniform across regional and metropolitan areas.
Zone 2 currently covers the entire public transport system within the Yarra Ranges, on buses and trains, and a trip through the two zones can significantly increase a fare.
Evelyn MP Christine Fyffe said the change to the system would mean that anyone travelling from the Yarra Ranges into the city with a full-fare Myki would be set to save around $5.
The current Zone 1 and 2 full fare price for a whole day is $12.12, while a daily fare in Zone 1 alone is $7.16.
She said the changes would provide significant savings for families and those who took public transport frequently.
Healesville resident and William Angliss Institute student Renee Matthews said she was currently spending around $36 on public transport each week, taking the train three days a week.
Under the changed system, Ms Matthews will be saving around $15 a week on transport costs, and she said this would have a positive impact on students.
“I think it’s really good for students in particular, who are working less and have to spend more time going in and out of the city to study,” she said.
“It makes public transport more accessible, so everyone can afford it.”
The reduction of fares, which includes a provision for free tram transport in the CBD, will cost $100 million a year, according to government estimates.
The Coalition announced the change on 26 March, but the Opposition said, due to the funding being allocated in the coming budget, that they would also be backing the change.
For more information on current public transport fares, visit www.ptv.vic.gov.au.
