2014 fares

[Jonno]

With public transport set to play an increasingly important role in the mitigation of climate change and productivity of our cities, there is a strong case to use taxation to underpin demand for public transport. Sustaining this demand through price signals will reduce congestion and maximise economic returns on investments made in transport infrastructure and services.

http://bic.asn.au/_literature_98146/Tax_Incentives_for_Public_Transport

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

5th December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

It is not rocket science is it?

Quote

    With public transport set to play an increasingly important role in the mitigation of climate change and productivity of our cities, there is a strong case to use taxation to underpin demand for public transport. Sustaining this demand through price signals will reduce congestion and maximise economic returns on investments made in transport infrastructure and services.


http://bic.asn.au/_literature_98146/Tax_Incentives_for_Public_Transport

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

1st December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

To further demonstrate how fares on public transport in SEQ have failed.  Look at the go card fare affordability data for years 2011, 2012, 2013 ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135680#msg135680 ) .  There is a marked increase in the fare measure of extremely expensive and expensive.  It really is time to halt the planned increase of 7.5% for 2014 and sort out a new fare system.  The present one is a gross failure

Fares extremely expensive / expensive

2011  65%

2012  69.5%

2013  88.4%

^ the downward spiral fare non-affordability ...

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 1st December 2013



SEQ: RAIL Back On Track's 2013 Public Transport Passenger Survey results now available!

Fare affordability bombshell!

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 conducted a survey of how public transport passengers rate our public transport in south-east Queensland (1).  Anyone who travels on public transport in south-east Queensland was invited to participate.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Since RAIL Back On Track formed in 2006 we have conducted our own annual member surveys on how members rate public transport.  This year we again opened up our survey up to the public! There were 183  responses to our survey!"

"The survey was web based and all public transport passengers on the TransLink network in south-east Queensland were welcome to complete it.  The survey was anonymous and quick to complete."

"Results of the survey, including comments, are now publicly available on the RAIL Back On Track discussion forum (1)."

"On behalf of our members we thank those public transport passengers who took the time drop by and fill out our survey.  Information is knowledge.  Knowledge leads to improvements."

There are two key messages from the survey:

1.  The public thinks the present fares are much too expensive, but is happier with the go card system itself, although some aspects do need improvement. Despite the introduction of free travel after 10 journeys early in 2012, followed by the introduction of free travel after nine journeys mid 2012, affordability has further worsened. 88% of survey respondents rated go card fares as expensive / extremely expensive. Further fare increases as planned from January 2014 are just going to worsen affordability and drive people way from public transport.  It is time for a complete review of fares.

2.  The service frequency of public transport, particularly rail out of peak and counter-peak, and bus and ferry, needs significant improvement.

References:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135663#msg135663

Contact:

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

All 2013 survey data and summaries can be viewed here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135659#msg135659

[Jonno]

We need to continue to get the message through that ever trip not on active or public transport is costing the tax payer and economy double and a major contributor to the cost of living.  This has nothing to do with paying Our Share.  Is about moving people the most cost effective and efficient way. 

@SpaceForCycling: 'traffic-free walking & cycling routes pay back 4x more than they cost in less than 10 years...roads, 60'
http://t.co/e5ueCtY23U @sustrans

@m_layton: Toronto Star - Finding the 'sweet spot' on transit taxes: where benefit and cost match up http://t.co/tvZGPx61Dz

[Jonno]

@thisbigcity: New Post: How Good Public Transport Can Encourage Sustainable Cities http://t.co/uVVgZjXXhB #sustainable #cities

[ozbob]

TransLink fares and ticketing 2014

--> http://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/fares-and-ticketing-2014

2014 Fares
Adult
Zones travelled    go card    go card
off-peak    Single paper ticket
1    $3.53    $2.83    $5.20
2    $4.14    $3.32    $6.10
3    $4.91    $3.93    $7.20
4    $5.52    $4.42    $8.10
5    $6.28    $5.03    $9.20
6    $7.05    $5.64    $10.30
7    $7.66    $6.13    $11.20
8    $8.27    $6.62    $12.00
9    $8.88    $7.11    $12.90
10    $10.26    $8.21    $14.90
11    $10.87    $8.70    $15.80
12    $11.32    $9.06    $16.50
13    $11.79    $9.44    $17.10
14    $12.71    $10.17    $18.50
15    $13.78    $11.03    $20.00
16    $14.85    $11.88    $21.60
17    $16.22    $12.98    $23.60
18    $17.14    $13.72    $24.90
19    $18.05    $14.44    $26.20
20    $19.44    $15.56    $28.20
21    $20.34    $16.28    $29.50
22    $21.41    $17.13    $31.10
23    $22.48    $17.99    $32.60

Please note: Prices are in $AUD and include GST.
Concession
Zones travelled    go card    go card
off-peak    Single paper ticket
1    $1.77    $1.42    $2.60
2    $2.07    $1.66    $3.10
3    $2.46    $1.97    $3.60
4    $2.76    $2.21    $4.10
5    $3.14    $2.52    $4.60
6    $3.53    $2.82    $5.20
7    $3.83    $3.07    $5.60
8    $4.14    $3.31    $6.00
9    $4.44    $3.56    $6.50
10    $5.13    $4.11    $7.50
11    $5.44    $4.35    $7.90
12    $5.66    $4.53    $8.30
13    $5.90    $4.72    $8.60
14    $6.36    $5.09    $9.30
15    $6.89    $5.52    $10.00
16    $7.43    $5.94    $10.80
17    $8.11    $6.49    $11.80
18    $8.57    $6.86    $12.50
19    $9.03    $7.22    $13.10
20    $9.72    $7.78    $14.10
21    $10.17    $8.14    $14.80
22    $10.71    $8.57    $15.60
23    $11.24    $9.00    $16.30

Please note: Prices are in $AUD and include GST.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

7th December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

The expected fare increase for 2014 has been announced on the TransLink website  http://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/fares-and-ticketing-2014

TransLink, the former ALP Government, and the present LNP government should hang their collective heads in shame.  The fare structure for SEQ is nothing short of a disgrace, and these further fare increases will continue the community resentment, patronage slide, worsening affordability with bigger macro economic costs in terms of congestion, more health sector expenditure and hardship for many.

Rorting the the failed fare system will now become an ' art form ' no doubt, adding further pressure on the worsening fare box. Fare evasion will no doubt accelerate as well.

In short a disaster for public transport in SEQ.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

5th December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

It is not rocket science is it?

Quote

    With public transport set to play an increasingly important role in the mitigation of climate change and productivity of our cities, there is a strong case to use taxation to underpin demand for public transport. Sustaining this demand through price signals will reduce congestion and maximise economic returns on investments made in transport infrastructure and services.


http://bic.asn.au/_literature_98146/Tax_Incentives_for_Public_Transport

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

1st December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

To further demonstrate how fares on public transport in SEQ have failed.  Look at the go card fare affordability data for years 2011, 2012, 2013 ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135680#msg135680 ) .  There is a marked increase in the fare measure of extremely expensive and expensive.  It really is time to halt the planned increase of 7.5% for 2014 and sort out a new fare system.  The present one is a gross failure

Fares extremely expensive / expensive

2011  65%

2012  69.5%

2013  88.4%

^ the downward spiral fare non-affordability ...

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 1st December 2013



SEQ: RAIL Back On Track's 2013 Public Transport Passenger Survey results now available!

Fare affordability bombshell!

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 conducted a survey of how public transport passengers rate our public transport in south-east Queensland (1).  Anyone who travels on public transport in south-east Queensland was invited to participate.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Since RAIL Back On Track formed in 2006 we have conducted our own annual member surveys on how members rate public transport.  This year we again opened up our survey up to the public! There were 183  responses to our survey!"

"The survey was web based and all public transport passengers on the TransLink network in south-east Queensland were welcome to complete it.  The survey was anonymous and quick to complete."

"Results of the survey, including comments, are now publicly available on the RAIL Back On Track discussion forum (1)."

"On behalf of our members we thank those public transport passengers who took the time drop by and fill out our survey.  Information is knowledge.  Knowledge leads to improvements."

There are two key messages from the survey:

1.  The public thinks the present fares are much too expensive, but is happier with the go card system itself, although some aspects do need improvement. Despite the introduction of free travel after 10 journeys early in 2012, followed by the introduction of free travel after nine journeys mid 2012, affordability has further worsened. 88% of survey respondents rated go card fares as expensive / extremely expensive. Further fare increases as planned from January 2014 are just going to worsen affordability and drive people way from public transport.  It is time for a complete review of fares.

2.  The service frequency of public transport, particularly rail out of peak and counter-peak, and bus and ferry, needs significant improvement.

References:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135663#msg135663

Contact:

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

All 2013 survey data and summaries can be viewed here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135659#msg135659

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

7th December 2013

Go card user education campaign

Good Morning Brisbane Media and others,

Clearly the Newman Government lacks the insight and the concern to sort out the fare system mess in south-east Queensland.

So I am requesting your support to educate citizens on how to use the go card optimally to help minimise the impacts of the savage fare increases.  Once the public en mass wakes up to the absolute shambles the fare system is and extract massive amounts of ' free ' travel, the Government might actually be forced to act in the community's best interests and sort it.

The first point that needs to be stressed is that no one should use paper single tickets.  They are even more expensive (at least 30%) for the equivalent trip with a go card and have time limitations, no free after nine paid journey cap, no off peak fares.  So it is a no-brainer to NOT use them at any cost.  Paper single tickets also help make the mediocre bus network even more inefficient, and adds to costs, more than it need be as well as buses are delayed with paper single purchases on board.

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

User tip #1  for Seniors and those on the two paid journey cap

The two card trick. Transferring is only possible from the same or adjoining zone.

So one way of getting two paid journeys completed quickly for Seniors is to have a normal Seniors go card, and a secondary Seniors go card.  For those who are in inner suburbs it is a lot easier to get two paid journeys completed quickly by doing zoners (short journeys) on buses.

However in middle and outer suburbia some innovation is needed. So say someone at Ipswich touches on and commences a journey to Brisbane.  At Darra, break journey and touch off.  Then touch on with secondary go card.  One paid journey is now complete on primary card.  Continue journey to say Milton.  Break journey and touch off with secondary go card.  Touch back on with primary go card (even though time is less than one hour from previous touch off because zone difference greater than one, initiates a new journey), touch off at Roma St or Central and go and have a cup of coffee. Two paid journeys now complete on primary go card. Have a cup of coffee for an hour.  Then you can travel to Gold Coast or wherever for the rest of the day for free. Happy travelling!  A recent example of the two card trick can be seen here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=7374.msg135789#msg135789

The two card trick is also useful for normal go card holders who wish to gain some extra paid journeys on the way the work ...  do your sums.

http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/tickets-and-fares/go-card/130801-user-guide.pdf


Quote

    Transferring  tips:
        • A journey is the distance travelled from
        departure to destination. A journey might
        involve several trips using different transport
        modes or routes.
        • A transfer is a change of transport mode or
        route to another service or route at the end of
        a trip to continue a journey.
        • A trip is the distance travelled on one route.
        When you transfer to another route or service
        you're commencing a new trip. You can make
        up to 4 trips within the 1 journey.
        Don't forget:
        • Your journey must continue from the same
        zone or adjoining zone.
        • There is a 1 hour time limit between transfers.
        That means you must touch on to your trip
        within 60 minutes of touching off at the end
        of your previous trip.
        • You must touch on to your final trip within
        3.5 hours of when you started your first trip.
        You have 6 hours to complete the journey.
        • You can transfer up to 3 times across
        all zones.


User tip #2

Lunch time ' zoners '

Anyone on a regular go card who does the traditional commute to and from work can save a lot of money by doing a lunch time one stop bus journey (or rail journey) at lunch time.  Once you complete nine paid journeys in a week (Mon  - Sun) your travel is free.

By completing three paid journeys a day (to work, lunch time journey, to home) you will complete 9 paid journeys when you complete home journey on Wednesday.

You travel free then on Thursday and Friday, and the weekend as desired. Savings can be considerable, particularly if a high zone commute.

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

It is rather sad that the failure that is the fare system is allowed to continue, drive people off public transport and continue to worsen fare affordability.

There are real concerns with transport in Queensland.  Bus failures, fare failures and now seriously worsening road congestion.

Time to stand up and be counted.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[BrizCommuter]

It's a pretty sad fare structure when even a 2 zone commuter can save nearly $4 a week using the lunch-time rort.

[STB]

It's a pretty sad fare structure when even a 2 zone commuter can save nearly $4 a week using the lunch-time rort.

Man if it continues to creep up without fixing this, I might as well do the 9 journey shuffle between Mater Hill and Southbank, until I reach 9 journeys on a Monday and go for a free ride for the rest of the week all over the network! 

I will admit, on student incomes, the free travel is actually a godsend, given that students earn less than any other Centrelink recipient, unless you also work on top of study, which for some isn't an option.

[ozbob]

^ 4KQ and FM 973 ( i think ) followed up.  Thanks for your support and interest!

[ozbob]

It's a pretty sad fare structure when even a 2 zone commuter can save nearly $4 a week using the lunch-time rort.

It is a disgrace ...

[ozbob]

2010  go card fares increased 20%, paper 40%

2011  fares increased 15%

2012  fares increased 15%

2013  fares increased 7.5%

2014  fare increase 7.5%

Simple terms 65% go card, paper 85%

Compound (real increase) fare increases 83% for go card, paper 114% for paper

CPI for this period  around 9.5%

This is the fundamental reason why fare affordability is the standout failure for the KPIs  http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2013-sep-snapshot.pdf

[techblitz]

2010  go card fares increased 20%, paper 40%

2011  fares increased 15%

2012  fares increased 15%

2013  fares increased 7.5%

2014  fare increase 7.5%

Simple terms 65% go card, paper 85%

Compound (real increase) fare increases 83% for go card, paper 114% for paper

CPI for this period  around 9.5%

This is the fundamental reason why fare affordability is the standout failure for the KPIs  http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2013-sep-snapshot.pdf

clearly below their best standards target as well.....yet the higher uppers seem unphased by this....

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

9th December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

There is little doubt that TransLink, the previous and present State Governments have in my opinion colluded to cap public transport patronage by price control.  Lets stop beating around the bush hey?

The problem is of course the five year fare fail is costing a lot more in terms of worsening road congestion, health sector costs escalating as road trauma and other health issues impact, apart from environmental considerations.  Patronage has stalled, air buses everywhere, trains not full.

The sad thing is both the major players will now no doubt trot out an improved fare system prior to the next state election.  Treating commuters with contempt in essence?

Just ponder this:

2010  go card fares increased 20%, paper 40%

2011  fares increased 15%

2012  fares increased 15%

2013  fares increased 7.5%

2014  fare increase 7.5%

Simple terms 65% go card, paper 85%

Compound (real increase) fare increases 83% for go card, paper 114% for paper

CPI for this period (2010-14)  around 10%

This is the fundamental reason why fare affordability is the stand-out failure for the KPIs  http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2013-sep-snapshot.pdf

It is still not too late to reverse the latest fare increase planned for 6 Jan 2014 and set in train a proper process to sort out the worlds worst fare structure.

The benefits for our economy would be profound.  Might even get some political credibility, which at present is lost for all money.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

7th December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

The expected fare increase for 2014 has been announced on the TransLink website  http://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/fares-and-ticketing-2014

TransLink, the former ALP Government, and the present LNP government should hang their collective heads in shame.  The fare structure for SEQ is nothing short of a disgrace, and these further fare increases will continue the community resentment, patronage slide, worsening affordability with bigger macro economic costs in terms of congestion, more health sector expenditure and hardship for many.

Rorting the the failed fare system will now become an ' art form ' no doubt, adding further pressure on the worsening fare box. Fare evasion will no doubt accelerate as well.

In short a disaster for public transport in SEQ.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

5th December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

It is not rocket science is it?

Quote

    With public transport set to play an increasingly important role in the mitigation of climate change and productivity of our cities, there is a strong case to use taxation to underpin demand for public transport. Sustaining this demand through price signals will reduce congestion and maximise economic returns on investments made in transport infrastructure and services.


http://bic.asn.au/_literature_98146/Tax_Incentives_for_Public_Transport

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

1st December 2013

Re: Fare affordability bombshell!

Greetings,

To further demonstrate how fares on public transport in SEQ have failed.  Look at the go card fare affordability data for years 2011, 2012, 2013 ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135680#msg135680 ) .  There is a marked increase in the fare measure of extremely expensive and expensive.  It really is time to halt the planned increase of 7.5% for 2014 and sort out a new fare system.  The present one is a gross failure

Fares extremely expensive / expensive

2011  65%

2012  69.5%

2013  88.4%

^ the downward spiral fare non-affordability ...

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 1st December 2013



SEQ: RAIL Back On Track's 2013 Public Transport Passenger Survey results now available!

Fare affordability bombshell!

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 conducted a survey of how public transport passengers rate our public transport in south-east Queensland (1).  Anyone who travels on public transport in south-east Queensland was invited to participate.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Since RAIL Back On Track formed in 2006 we have conducted our own annual member surveys on how members rate public transport.  This year we again opened up our survey up to the public! There were 183  responses to our survey!"

"The survey was web based and all public transport passengers on the TransLink network in south-east Queensland were welcome to complete it.  The survey was anonymous and quick to complete."

"Results of the survey, including comments, are now publicly available on the RAIL Back On Track discussion forum (1)."

"On behalf of our members we thank those public transport passengers who took the time drop by and fill out our survey.  Information is knowledge.  Knowledge leads to improvements."

There are two key messages from the survey:

1.  The public thinks the present fares are much too expensive, but is happier with the go card system itself, although some aspects do need improvement. Despite the introduction of free travel after 10 journeys early in 2012, followed by the introduction of free travel after nine journeys mid 2012, affordability has further worsened. 88% of survey respondents rated go card fares as expensive / extremely expensive. Further fare increases as planned from January 2014 are just going to worsen affordability and drive people way from public transport.  It is time for a complete review of fares.

2.  The service frequency of public transport, particularly rail out of peak and counter-peak, and bus and ferry, needs significant improvement.

References:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135663#msg135663

Contact:

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

All 2013 survey data and summaries can be viewed here --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10297.msg135659#msg135659

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor published Queensland Times 9th December 2013 page 9

Fare hikes a disgrace

[ozbob]

Media release 15th December 2013



SEQ: All we want for Christmas is a new fare system!

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 five year path commenced in 2010 and culminating with another fare hike many times CPI from 6th January 2014 has failed (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The five year high cost fare path was ostensibly designed to arrest the fare box slide.  It is has failed to do that because the massive fare increases have lead to patronage stagnation, despite many increases in service kilometres for bus and rail."

"During 2013 the fare fail has been further compounded by the failed bus reviews. All bus regions now are having route, frequency and span of hours cuts inflicted upon them, principally to support the failed bus direct service model fixated on by Brisbane City Council."

"From 6th January 2014 a one zone single adult paper ticket will cost $5.20! Go card fares are little bit more affordable relative to paper."

"The entire premise of the present failed fare system though is wide open to active rorting.  This in turn is leading to an increasing culture of fare evasion sadly."

"It is time to say enough! A new fare system must now be a priority.  Looming election deadlines no doubt will help achieve an outcome that leads to a balanced, fair, comprehensive fare system that gets people onto public transport around the clock.  A fare system that has sensible fares for the first journey in a week as well the 20th journey in week."

"Will Santa deliver?"

References:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135994#msg135994

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg135922#msg135922

Contact:

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

[Derwan]

TransLink is pushing the government's "we halved the increase" line - as though that makes it more palatable!

Sorry - but it's still more than 3 times higher than inflation!

[BrizCommuter]

BrizCommuter is working on the 2014 world fare comparison, which will be posted a few days before new year.

[newbris]

Just out of interest when comparing different countries fares are you just going to use current exchange rates or take average salaries into account ?

I ask because just using exchange rates does not reflect to the true cost in each country. For example the current exchange rate between the UK and Australia is very misleading if trying to use it for cost of living comparisons. It will make things look a lot more expensive in Australia even when they cost the same percentage of an average salary in each country. Apologies if I'm just telling you what you already know...

[#Metro]

This data might be helpful re the above feedback. Not 100% sure how to apply it but here it is http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/PA.NUS.PPPC.RF

[BrizCommuter]

Just out of interest when comparing different countries fares are you just going to use current exchange rates or take average salaries into account ?

I ask because just using exchange rates does not reflect to the true cost in each country. For example the current exchange rate between the UK and Australia is very misleading if trying to use it for cost of living comparisons. It will make things look a lot more expensive in Australia even when they cost the same percentage of an average salary in each country. Apologies if I'm just telling you what you already know...

No it is not used. In fact the average salary for each city, rather than country would be required as typically city salaries are typically much higher than those living in rural areas, and salaries also vary between cities in the same country. Unfortunately, this data is hard to come by, and often outdated.

However, BrizCommuter had a little look at this a few years ago and Brisbane still came out very badly.

[ozbob]

A letter to the editor Queensland Times 18th December 2013 page 9

Rising fares drive commuters away

[Stillwater]

Well argued.  Good letter.

[newbris]

Just out of interest when comparing different countries fares are you just going to use current exchange rates or take average salaries into account ?

I ask because just using exchange rates does not reflect to the true cost in each country. For example the current exchange rate between the UK and Australia is very misleading if trying to use it for cost of living comparisons. It will make things look a lot more expensive in Australia even when they cost the same percentage of an average salary in each country. Apologies if I'm just telling you what you already know...

No it is not used. In fact the average salary for each city, rather than country would be required as typically city salaries are typically much higher than those living in rural areas, and salaries also vary between cities in the same country. Unfortunately, this data is hard to come by, and often outdated.

However, BrizCommuter had a little look at this a few years ago and Brisbane still came out very badly.

Yes, no doubt we could still come out badly in a true cost of living comparison...especially for shorter fares...longer fares I think in some cases may be more affordable still as a percentage of salary than places like the UK though not sure about other countries.

Agreed, to be increasingly accurate you would need to make the salary figures used more and more local which becomes unreasonable. I do think though that dividing each countries countrywide salary figures into each-other to produce a relative salary differential is a far more accurate conversion rate to use than simply using current exchange rates. Exchange rates are totally unsuited to these types of comparisons as they produce generally meaningless rankings given their ability to be so divorced from the salary differential.

[ozbob]

A letter to the editor Queensland Times 18th December 2013 page 9

Rising fares drive commuters away

^ follow up.  Queensland Times 19th December 2013 page 9

[ozbob]

From the Sunshine Coast Daily click here!

Train fares up, but-toilets-work

Train fares up, but-toilets-work

    Kathy Sundstrom
    19th Dec 2013 6:00 AM

TOILETS are working and more trains are mostly on time, but Sunshine Coast rail commuters are going to have to brace themselves for a fare increase from January 6.

Fares are going up by 7.5% - from about $15.08 to $16.22 a trip from Nambour to Brisbane on a Go Card.

It will go up from $21.90 to $23.60 a trip without the Go Card.

Regular commuter Jeff Addison says the increase is extra money people cannot afford and will make more of them question whether the train is worth the exercise.

Mr Addison, who is holidaying on the Gold Coast, said our region could do with the type of regular service enjoyed down south.

"On the Gold Coast, trains running from Brisbane are every eight minutes," he said. "On the Sunshine Coast, it is 24 minutes to 90 minutes. It is no comparison. That is why the Government has to duplicate the railway line.

"The population on the Sunshine Coast is 330,000, yet we have a single-line track and ad hoc services.

"The Gold Coast population is 500,000. Proportionally, we are so far behind."

Mr Addison has welcomed the State Government's announcement of two new Sunshine Coast services: one departing the Coast at 5.07am and the other departing Brisbane at 4.22pm.

He said the service would be "good for those who need to get to work early, but not much help for the majority who work nine to five".

The Government's plan to bring off-peak time back by half an hour to 8.30am from 9am was also appreciated, even though it might not benefit the Sunshine Coast.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson has announced Sunshine Coast commuters over the past two quarters have experienced about 95% of peak trains reaching their destination within four minutes of the timetable.

IMPROVEMENTS

     Halving proposed fare hikes under the previous government
     Adding additional peak services (January 20)
     Providing access to TravelTrain services
     Providing free travel after nine weekly journeys
     Expanding the off-peak discount to start at 8.30am (from January 6)
     Significantly improving reliability and on-time running
     Fixing blocked toilets

[Stillwater]

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has advertised in regional media today, publishing fares to apply on qconnect Gympie region services from 1 January 2014.  (Concession fares in brackets.)

ZONE 1:  $2.60   ($1.30)
ZONE 2:  $3.00   ($1.50)
ZONE 3:  $3.80   ($1.90)
ZONE 4:  $4.30   ($2.20)
ZONE 5:  $5.00   ($2.50)
ZONE 6:  $5.80   ($2.90)
ZONE 7:  $6.20   ($3.10)
ZONE 8:  $6.60   ($3.30)
ZONE 9:  $7.10   ($3.60)
ZONE 10: $8.20  ($4.10)
ZONE 11: $9.00  ($4.50)

Discount weekly or multi-trip tickets will continue to be available.

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

[kazzac]

The new weekly cost of an average 2 zone fare will now be $37.40 counting the 9 than free . I can fill the tank of my car for the same amount and a tank of fuel in my small car will last about 2 weeks ,commuting to work and back .the fare increase should be only half , more people will be turned away from PT because of the high fares, I pity anyone whom is on Newstart allowance , they are not entitled to concession fares here in Qld like in every other state and territory .

[James]

I think the big issue with the most recent fare increase is that it is going to be a deal breaker for a lot of people vs. the car. Back when increases just started, 10% really wasn't huge thanks to fares already being reasonably priced. Now fares are already extortionate, increasing them by anything more than CPI will drive away passengers in their droves. I don't think they (Newman/Emerson) realise that it is the farebox that matters - not fares. If you drive away more revenue (i.e. people) than the fare increase offsets, the farebox will decrease further - essentially making the fare increase pointless and a net negative on society (because the people who used to use the bus now drive instead). It is so simple, yet the pollies simply do not realise it.

That being said, credit where credit is due, at least it isn't a 15% increase, even amidst BT staying with its high-waste anti-connections direct services network which is engulfing entire suburbs and rendering areas of Brisbane inaccessible by PT and driving both BCC and the state government into debt.

Off-peak at 8:30am is dumb. Not that I'm complaining though, now all my bus trips will be in the off-peak!

[Stillwater]

Perhaps it's worse -- the government wants fewer passengers on PT, particularly rail.  Treasury sees one extra passenger on a train as being another person whose travel the state must subsidise.  Network capacity and limitations means it can't cope with, say, a 10 per cent increase in patronage.  Central and Merivale Bridge are chokepoints that MUST be addressed, hence new city stations and UBAT tunnel.

[James]

Perhaps it's worse -- the government wants fewer passengers on PT, particularly rail.  Treasury sees one extra passenger on a train as being another person whose travel the state must subsidise.  Network capacity and limitations means it can't cope with, say, a 10 per cent increase in patronage.  Central and Merivale Bridge are chokepoints that MUST be addressed, hence new city stations and UBAT tunnel.

All increasing prices does is drive people back into cars in peak hour, as generally peak trips must be made. Short term, this increases congestion, meaning medium-term (in peak hour only) people either a) go back to PT or b) change their place of residence/work. Long-term, people start to leave Brisbane and alternative methods of housing in alternative areas are constructed.

Off-peak is where the biggest gains can be made, as congestion does not exist (theoretically) in these periods. The state is still running these services, they might as well encourage passengers on to these services. Take myself. Peak, I need to go to Uni. I can't really not go to Uni, so the trip isn't discretionary. Pull the buses off the road, I walk. Off-peak is when I go to the shops, to the bank, to see friends, and on day trips. These trips are all discretionary - pull the buses, I can walk/drive, although I'm quite likely to stop making those trips.

[ozbob]

Perhaps it's worse -- the government wants fewer passengers on PT, particularly rail.  Treasury sees one extra passenger on a train as being another person whose travel the state must subsidise.  Network capacity and limitations means it can't cope with, say, a 10 per cent increase in patronage.  Central and Merivale Bridge are chokepoints that MUST be addressed, hence new city stations and UBAT tunnel.

I was about to type  the usual ... f**** it ... I have had it with these pr%%ks .. the fare system is a f%cking disaster.

We all know it. It is time for street (station?) protests .. .. out on the streets to shame these clowns ...

[minbrisbane]

To my eyes the theory that they're driving fares up to reduce spending is becoming more realistic every year.  I won't be surprised if in 2014 when patronage drops they'll cancel UBAT and scale back frequencies/spans. 

I'm honestly surprised there haven't been protests yet.  Many people are going to either drive or be stuck at home because the fares will be perhaps the highest in the world.

Something has to be done.  Didn't Campbell say he was going to review the fare system?  Or is raising the fares 7.5% his idea of a review? 

/rant

[minbrisbane]

I'm ready to fight the good fight!  The fight that needs to be fought!

[STB]

One has to question who is leading the State.  The Minister, Treasury or the Premier.

[ozbob]

I'm ready to fight the good fight!  The fight that needs to be fought!

Thank you!

[ozbob]

One has to question who is leading the State.  The Minister, Treasury or the Premier.

A very fair question STB ..

No one knows IMHO ...

[minbrisbane]

I wonder if the premier knows...

[ozbob]

I wonder if the premier knows...

Another very good question.   

I think he understands the risks of the fare fail ... but polyticks being what it is ..  they pretend that whales tap dance?

[ozbob]