10 Jan 2010: SEQ: Go card call for new users amnesty for refund of fixed fares

[ozbob]

Media Release 10 January 2010

SEQ:  Go card  call for new users amnesty for refund of fixed fares

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has highlighted the need for an amnesty for new users of the go card previously (1). As Melbourne rolls out their smart card ticketing system, the myki card, they have put in place a no questions policy for people who forget to scan off when using their new myki card on Melbourne's rail system. They will be given two chances to get it right before they are penalised (2).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"With any new technology there is a learning period.  We call for a general policy for all new go card users that they be assured they can obtain two fare adjustments for a failure to touch off in the first 4 weeks of use on application for reimbursement.  This does not include other causes such as equipment or service failures which may incur a fixed fare penalty, but for folks who simply forget to touch off."

"This is not an invitation for fare evasion, rather a sign that TransLink and Government want people to be comfortable with the go card and will give new users confidence to take up the technology; knowing that in the introductory period of use they can have some redress if they get it wrong once or twice."

"Last week was a go disaster.  Lets move forward with a more supportive environment for go card users from this point."

References:

1.   5 August 2008 SEQ: TransLink Transit Authority - Please reconsider an amnesty for new go card users
http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1214.msg5422#msg5422

2.   http://www.theage.com.au/national/myki-users-hit-hard-on-card-lapses-20100104-lq64.html

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org