Queensland Transport to return $30m in carbon tax savings as lower fares or incr

[#Metro]

So, 5% reduction, and avoided 2.5% increase is about 7.5% cost increase avoided in simple terms. Effectively a reversal of the previous fare increase.

Sounds good, but remember the cost explosion is driven by two root causes - bus network routing inefficiency, and QR's high service production costs (a result of legacy rail issues).

[Arnz]

While I do thank the authorities for the 5% decrease, however it needs to be at least a 15% decrease (in go card fares) to be meaningful, IMO. 

Paper ticket fares can stay where they are, IMO.  They are on the way out anyway, and would probably be good marketing for TL if they decreased go card fares dramatically, but kept paper tickets where they are.  "Save over 45% with Go Card" - under a 15% or more decrease.

[#Metro]

BrizCommuter has temporarily come out of exile to comment on this charade of a vote:
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2014/08/brizcommuter-special-fare-decrease-vs.html

Always liked reading BZC posts, hopefully will see the blog again.

[ozbob]

BrizCommuter has temporarily come out of exile to comment on this charade of a vote:
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2014/08/brizcommuter-special-fare-decrease-vs.html

Nice blog post Briz, thanks!   

Powers to be are aware of it ..   

[ozbob]

Until we have an administration that will take the necessary steps to sort the fare system and the network, failure will be the hallmark of public transport in SEQ. 

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2014/9/1/queenslanders-have-their-say-on-public-transport-boost

Media Statements
Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Monday, September 01, 2014

Queenslanders have their say on public transport boost

Almost 1,600 Queenslanders have already had their say on how to reinvest carbon tax savings back into public transport after one day of voting.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said this strong level of feedback showed Queenslanders were keen to have their say on either cheaper public transport fares or more services.

"With the carbon tax gone, we want to re-invest the savings of about $30 million a year into improving public transport for families," Mr Emerson said.

"As part our strong plan to improve public transport for Queenslanders we have already delivered an extra 3000 train and bus services and halved Labor's planned 15 per cent fare hikes in 2013 and 2014.

"These savings allow us to do more and over the next two weeks Queenslanders are being asked whether they want reduced fares or more services.

"The choice is simple – either a five per cent cut and freeze to fares in 2015 for all metropolitan and regional government public transport services, or up to 1000 additional services across bus, train and ferry."

Mr Emerson said LNP would never support the policies of Labor – on-going 15 per cent fare hikes.

"Whatever the public chose would be a win for public transport as we continue to improve affordability, frequency and the reliability of the network," he said.

"If people choose a reduction in fares, a regular weekday passenger travelling from Brisbane to Chermside or Carindale could save an additional $99 a year.

"That's a saving of $630 a year compared to Labor's policy of on-going 15 per cent fare increases."

The online survey started yesterday and can be accessed via the TransLink website http://translink.com.au or call on 13 12 30. It will close at midnight Sunday, 14 September.

[ENDS] 1 September 2014 

=================

[#Metro]

Must be a George Street response to ---> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?

Cost explosion to be reversed?

Had to laugh. The Brumby Gov't in victoria froze PT fares just before an election, they got booted. Anna Bligh did the same thing, froze fares just before an election, got booted, LNP now reading from the same songbook... will they be booted too??

Hopefully Yeronga, Centenary (as feeder to Indooroopilly) and Albany Creek (as feeder to Ennoggera) and Bulimba (reworked) get upgrades. Rail upgrades could be 15 minutes all day to Springfield, will permit express trains on the Ipswich line.

[ozbob]

Fairfax radio news (4BC 1116 & 882) is running comments on this, Premier, Minister and yours truly.

Mine basically some fare relief welcome however opportunity for proper fare and network reform is being squandered.  Unless this occurs we will be back in the same boat of unaffordability in a short while.

[BrizCommuter]

BrizCommuter has temporarily come out of exile to comment on this charade of a vote:
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2014/08/brizcommuter-special-fare-decrease-vs.html

Always liked reading BZC posts, hopefully will see the blog again.

Not for a while. There may some election coverage.

[ozbob]

ABC Gold Coast have scheduled an interview for 8.30am or so this morning ..   

[ozbob]

How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen if the masses vote for fare cuts.

Some examples:

Assume applies to paper as well.

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[Jonno]

This is a great opportunity to highlight to the poillies and the public that every trip that is made by foot, bike or transit is saving the tax payer money compared to the trip being made by car.  The reduction should not be seen as a subsidy by a cost avoidance strategy!

[#Metro]

The Red Political Team must have known something was amiss with the bus network when they had to jack up fares 20% in 2010, then followed by multiple cost explosions of 15% thereafter. Didn't something click? If they stymie the bus review, so that they get into office, they will face the same problem again, and then what are they going to do? Sounds like 'winners curse'.

[ozbob]

Long interview on ABC Gold Coast FM with Nicole Dyer, following Minister.

Got on to fares and the bus issues.   Explained that we need proper network and fare reform.  The two are intrinsically linked ...

Thanks for the interest Nicole and ABC Gold Coast FM ...   

[SurfRail]

Unfortunately have been knee deep in alligators workwise - I thought that was Nicole calling me earlier today.  Thanks for covering this Bob.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Carbon savings should be spent on public transport review: Rail Back on Track

The Queensland government's $30 million in carbon tax savings should be spent on a comprehensive public transport review, according to a commuter advocacy group.

Premier Campbell Newman announced at the weekend that Queensland residents would be asked to decide whether the unexpected windfall should be used to decrease fares or increase bus and train services.

But Robert Dow from Rail Back on Track described it as a token, vote-winning exercise, saying the money would be better spent on a comprehensive review of fares and the network in order to bolster efficiency and patronage.

"Pragmatically, it's a superficial exercise," he said.

"Rather than trying to buy votes, there needs to be a commitment to a proper fare review. We have an unsustainable public transport network, it's poorly designed and we are stuck with one of the world's most expensive transport systems.

"People will say a five per cent cut is better than nothing but it's short-term thinking.

"It's not addressing the systemic issues with a poorly designed fare structure and the obvious network issues."

Public transport fares in Southeast Queensland are among the highest in the country, Mr Dow said, which prevents many people from using the network.

Network connectivity is also a major problem, with almost non-existent feeder bus services to rail hubs also stymieing patronage.

"My experience is people will pay a fair fare," he said.

"If Translink cut fares by 30 per cent, they would make money with increased patronage."

"The government needs to consult with the public, use the money to commit to proper fare review, and explain why the network has to be improved.

"If they do that they will get the public on board.

"This five per cent cut is short-term. In six months time we'll back to where we were."

Mr Dow also said the lack of capped tickets, such as daily and weekly tickets that enables commuters to take multiple trips, was prohibiting families from using the network, while Queensland was also the only state that did not offer concessions to the unemployed.

In announcing the unexpected windfall on Sunday, Mr Newman said he wanted the savings passed on to commuters.

"We have found $30 million worth of savings in the transport budget with the abolition of the carbon tax," he said.

"We're now asking Queenslanders, do they want a decrease in public transport fares or do they want more services?

"We think people should have their say, whether they be public transport commuters or just the broader members of the public."

The $30 million had been earmarked to pay higher annual electricity bills and other costs that were forecast to be incurred by the public transport system with carbon pricing in place.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/carbon-savings-should-be-spent-on-public-transport-review-rail-back-on-track-20140901-10awiz.html

[ozbob]

Twitter

Shane Doherty ‏@ShaneDoherty9

@theqldpremier says cheaper transport tickets not just a south east Qld thing - statewide #qldpol #9News pic.twitter.com/0AUlONr7wh

[ozbob]

Twitter

Shane Doherty ‏@ShaneDoherty9

@theqldpremier says cheaper transport tickets not just a south east Qld thing - statewide #qldpol #9News pic.twitter.com/0AUlONr7wh

LOL  fares for qconnect/TransLinkQld are very cheap compared to SEQ.  The cost of the changes will outweigh any real benefit of 5% ... 

[ozbob]

Unfortunately have been knee deep in alligators workwise - I thought that was Nicole calling me earlier today.  Thanks for covering this Bob.

No worries.  A listener called in during the interview, and strongly highlighted some of the bus issues as it affected him and family. Complained bitterly about the early finish of services (last at 5.08pm) and lack of connections.

The Minister was interviewed strongly and fairly.  Nicole asked him at one point to stop using the 'Labor' excuse and explain what they are going to do.

Good!   

[James]

I voted for an increase in service. My wishlist is as follows:

Brisbane
- Centenary FUZ as far as Indooroopilly (run to CBD as BUZ if we terminate 425, 435 and 445 at Indro)
- Bulimba BUZ
- 300 BUZ
- Restore high levels of service on the Waterworks Rd corridor (i.e. pre-BCC bus review level of service)

Gold Coast
- Restore removed late-night 765 trips - going via Broadbeach to travel between two suburbs which are effectively next to each other (Varsity Lakes and Burleigh) is not a solution!
- Make all routes (aside from the extremely low-patronage coverage routes) 7am - 7pm 7 days a week on hourly frequency
- Look at expanding the go network 15-minute frequency period to 6am - 8pm/9pm. I feel 7am - 7pm high frequency is pretty poor standard, especially given routes like the 740 immediately drop back to hourly after that. That's pretty ordinary really...

There are other minor tweaks which really should be considered as well in the outer regions - improved span of hours, minor frequency increases etc.

[ozbob]

https://www.facebook.com/TransLinkQLD/posts/957607514265314

[SurfRail]

Gold Coast
- Restore removed late-night 765 trips - going via Broadbeach to travel between two suburbs which are effectively next to each other (Varsity Lakes and Burleigh) is not a solution!
- Make all routes (aside from the extremely low-patronage coverage routes) 7am - 7pm 7 days a week on hourly frequency
- Look at expanding the go network 15-minute frequency period to 6am - 8pm/9pm. I feel 7am - 7pm high frequency is pretty poor standard, especially given routes like the 740 immediately drop back to hourly after that. That's pretty ordinary really...

Agree with the above except that in my view, the only route on the Gold Coast which does not justify at least 12-13 services per day at minimum is the 737, which is very specifically set up to connect a heap of retirement homes to the nearest shops and Southport.  It has 4 per day and that is probably sufficient for what it is.  Nearly the whole route is duplicated by much higher levels of service but this is very windy and penetrates a lot of little pockets you would not want busier routes diverting to.

The 704 also needs to be half-hourly until midnight in both directions like the 709 - the current arrangement northbound from Southport in the evenings is absurd.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

1st September 2014

July 2014 snap shot data - affordability remains standout failure

Greetings,

The July 2014 TransLinkSEQ snapshot data has been published in the shadows of the ' fare cuts ' survey ...

Affordability continues to be at crisis levels.  No wonder that something is finally happening hey?

July snapshot data released:

http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-july-snapshot.pdf

Page 14



Some reading: Brisbanetimes --> Carbon savings should be spent on public transport review: Rail Back on Track

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

The LNP have dealt their cards, two pairs basically. 

Three of a kind or even a simple 9 high straight will top it ... 

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

3rd September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Fascinating to observe photographs of LNP members selling the fare cuts or service improvements survey outside SEQ. ( http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say )

Do these members really understand the cost of fares on the qconnect/TransLinkQLD (Cairns) network?

Here they are -->  http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/travel-and-transport/qconnect/urban-bus-services.aspx

Around half or less the cost of fares in SEQ.  Many of the regional jurisdictions also have daily/weekly periodical tickets as well.

It really does highlight what a stunt this cynical survey actually is in my opinion.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 2nd September 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has said the TransLink performance snap shot data for July 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010-2014 (1).

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 9.5% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases has stagnated patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for July 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail!"

"It is a great disappointment  to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade survey is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-july-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability July 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen if the masses vote for fare cuts.

Some examples:

Assume applies to paper as well.

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Sunshine Coast Daily 4th September 2014 page 3

Travellers put wallet first

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Queensland Government won't reveal public transport feedback

[ozbob]

http://www.scottemerson.com.au/media/media-releases/557-one-week-to-decide-fares-or-services.html

One week to decide fares or services

08 September 2014

Queenslanders have one week to decide how to spend $30million of carbon tax savings with a choice of increased transport services or reduced fares.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said since the survey was announced last Sunday, more than 16,000 Queenslanders had already voted.

"This week is the last chance to have your say and help decide how the savings should be spent," Mr Emerson said.

"Whether you choose a five per cent reduction in fares or 1,000 extra transport services across the State, this survey delivers on our strong plan to lower the cost of living and revitalise frontline services.

"More than 82 per cent of Queenslanders that voted were from Brisbane suburbs.

"All passengers are encouraged to make their choice as the results of this survey will benefit the entire state, not just South East Queensland."

Across the State the interest varied including:

    Mackay (0.22 per cent)
    Cairns (0.19 per cent)
    Gold Coast (5.75 per cent)
    Ipswich (4.48 per cent)
    Rockhampton (0.29 per cent)
    Sunshine Coast (3.41 per cent)

Mr Emerson said this Can-Do LNP Government was getting on with the job of improving affordability, reliability and frequency in the public transport network.

"Already we halved Labor's planned 15 per cent fare increases in 2013 and 2014, introduced 3,000 bus and train services and up to 80,000 passengers are benefiting from our free travel after nine weekly journey's initiative."

The online survey will close at midnight Sunday 14 September so log on to the website http://translink.com.au/ or phone 13 12 30

[#Metro]

Couriermail --> Queensland Government won't reveal public transport feedback

Emerson is much more dressed up! Newman in jeans and barcode polo.
Is this casual dress part of operation 'boring' too?

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

. @scottemersonmp It is a small start. Proper network & fare reform is needed particularly for SEQ hey? > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10930.msg145951#msg145951 ... #qldpol

[ozbob]

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Queensland Government won't reveal public transport feedback

Emerson is much more dressed up! Newman in jeans and barcode polo.
Is this casual dress part of operation 'boring' too?

Response rate must be a worry.

My daughter on the way to the station this morning ..

"Hey Dad, what is this so called TransLink survey?  Cuts or services, it is nonsense.  What a dumb survey .. "

Have to agree .. lol 

[ozbob]

Gawd,  Transport Minister has just ruined what little credibility this so called survey had ..

As expected, overwhelming ' fare cut ' response ..

===================

Twitter

Scott Emerson ‏@scottemersonmp

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

8th September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

The Transport Minister has just ruined what ever little dubious credibility this so called ' survey ' had ..  beyond farce this.

Twitter

Scott Emerson ‏@scottemersonmp 12m

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol http://t.co/de6Qlxd3Tm

Proper fare reform and network reform is the correct thing to do, not cheap cynical vote buying.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Sent to all outlets:

3rd September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Fascinating to observe photographs of LNP members selling the fare cuts or service improvements survey outside SEQ. ( http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say )

Do these members really understand the cost of fares on the qconnect/TransLinkQLD (Cairns) network?

Here they are -->  http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/travel-and-transport/qconnect/urban-bus-services.aspx

Around half or less the cost of fares in SEQ.  Many of the regional jurisdictions also have daily/weekly periodical tickets as well.

It really does highlight what a stunt this cynical survey actually is in my opinion.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Media release 2nd September 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has said the TransLink performance snap shot data for July 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Fares for public transport in SEQ have gone up in real terms (compound) around 83% for go card and 114% for paper single tickets during the period 2010-2014 (1).

"CPI for the period 2010-2014 has gone up around 9.5% (2).  The sheer magnitude of the fare increases has stagnated patronage on public transport in SEQ.  Fare box revenue is also on the slide.  To continue on this failed fare path is not in the interests of anyone."

"It is then no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for July 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail!"

"It is a great disappointment  to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade survey is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  The present free after nine paid journeys is easily rorted and is adding to further cost pressures for high base fares. This failed fare paradigm was introduced by the former State Government as free after 10 paid journeys in a week. The Newman Government simply carried on the basic flawed paradigm by changing it 9 paid journeys in a week as the threshold. The end result has been worsening patronage, a failed fare box and  worsening affordability overall."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135186#msg135186

2. http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/products/tables/cpi-all-groups-bris-wt-avg-eight-qtr/index.php

3. http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-july-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability July 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen if the masses vote for fare cuts.

Some examples:

Assume applies to paper as well.

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Media release 8th September 2014



SEQ: Minister Emerson confirms the obvious - fares are too expensive in SEQ

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has said today's revelation by the Transport Minister* that 75% of the TransLink Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey respondents have gone for fare cuts is no surprise, but highlights the fact that the survey has always been more about political stunts than sound policy reform (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a stunt. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it has finished has now consigned the survey to total irrelevance.  The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (2, 3, 4). Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network.  Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just buy votes for the next state election."

*
Twitter

Scott Emerson @scottemersonmp

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol http://t.co/de6Qlxd3Tm

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

3. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

4. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

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[ozbob]

Fairfax radio news and 7 News Brisbane have followed up.  Thanks for the interest. 

[#Metro]

Twitter

Scott Emerson ‏@scottemersonmp

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol

Ugh. The fares are too high but they are high due to the high service production costs within QR and legacy routing within BCC/BT. The $30 million is going to be squandered on pre-election pandering. That is more than enough to fix all the outstanding problems within Yeronga, Centenary, Albany Creek, Bulimba. Using the remainder (7.5 million) might be enough to just fix up perhaps just one problem area - Centenary. Network restructuring would put a lid on fares anyway.

How did this mess all begin? In 2009 fares were frozen by Anna Bligh just before an election year (sound familiar?) Brumby in Victoria did the same thing as well. Of course, as a general rule you cannot get something from nothing and the fare increase next year made up for the freeze, increasing 20%.

Since 2004 bus patronage had gone up (a combination of fares and ticketing integration, busway opening and progressive BUZ rollout) and I think this masked the fundamental problems within the network structure. You couldn't see that there was a problem, although there were clues (i.e. transport forum paper showing QR's cost per passenger was around $10.50, one of the highest in the world, this being due to having to pay 2x more staff to run 1x service as other operators; Maroon CityGlider and P88, BCC's divisional manager slamming interchange at one of RBOTs transport forums).

When the LNP came in, they needed to play the discounts game, freezing car rego etc, none of these populist freezes can be sustained forever as the costs are real - hence we got slapped with the 9-then-waste scheme, leaking even more money. The true extent of The Waste was revealed inadvertently in the TransLink bus review with 50% air buses in peak hour (unbelievable), legacy routing all over the shop, high dead running costs compared to industry benchmarks etc.

It is a miracle that the system actually still holds together despite all these things. But for how long, who knows. Without fundamental change I think any fare relief will ultimately be temporary - staff need to be paid, new areas of development need service - I think the lesson of the last 10 years is you can't just declare costs are capped and then sweep problems under the rug.

[ozbob]

" Farce Actors Dancing "  sort of sums it up in my mind .. nice painting .. 

[ozbob]

ALP botched a lot.  The LNP were elected on a expectation of fixing things.  Still waiting ..

Bus review failure.

Fare review failure (there was one, kept from the public essentially).  Unaffordability at worst levels ever.

TTCC issues, denied.  Easily resolved.

But for me the crowning non-achievement was the tunnel competition.

NO acronyms OK.  Sure ..

So lets call it BaT ...  knew it was getting momentum downhill to policy oblivion after that little effort ...

[Otto]

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

Remember to round up the paper tickets to the nearest 10c . No 5c increments in paper tickets.