7 Jan 2013: SEQ: TransLink versus TransPerth

[ozbob]

Media release 7th January 2013

SEQ: TransLink versus TransPerth

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 highlighted the 7.5% fare rises.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The recent fare increases will hit residents in the suburbs of Bulimba, Centenary and the Northwest
hard as these areas are public transport 'no go' zones and now they are paying 7.5% more for
it. High frequency bus services should be extended to these areas as a priority, and in particular to Bulimba."

"Rail users will also be disproportionately affected as much of the network
runs sub-par 30 minute frequency outside of peak hour. The exception here is the Ferny Grove Line,
however even this is a partial upgrade, interpeak only and where frequent service is not available on weekends."

"Perth's system provides a stark comparison to the situation here in Brisbane. Not only does Perth have
fewer people and a smaller network than Brisbane, they have now eclipsed Brisbane in carrying patronage,
provide double the train service frequency to all stations on all lines all day, and not only that,
charge less than TransLink does for comparable journeys.* Perth also runs identical trains to Queensland Rail."

"If anything is clear, we need a review of TransLink fares. These fare increases are significantly
above CPI and also above weekly wage growth. On trains, passengers are not getting value for money
due to low frequency for most of the day. Where is the money going and what is driving such huge
increases?"

"We just can't afford to not have a proper detailed fare review, with public consultation."

References:

* TransPerth Perth CBD to Mandurah, 70 km, adult pm peak hour - $9.40
* TransLink Brisbane CBD to Helensvale, 68.2 km adult pm peak hour $10.53

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

Discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9292.msg116616#msg116616

[kazzac]

Trans perth wins hands down here, frequency,cheaper fares.Yes their trains are similar to QR trains, tracks are same guage width.

[SurfRail]

It's difficult to make flat comparisons.  In Perth, the culture of planning and delivery is just so different.  They had the foresight to segregate their network, both away from freight and internally, so the only clashes are over the Fremantle bridge and with the very few long-distance services (the IP, the Prospector and the Australind, all of which run through more frequent suburban trains than we offer).

The culture is mucked up here and that is a root cause of failure.