2014 fares

[ozbob]

The best advice you can give is to:

1.  Never ever use paper single tickets

2.  Go the rort!

[#Metro]

It would appear Perth with a subsidy of 67% (lower than Brisbane's 75-80%) is trying to push the subsidy down to 50% through fare hikes.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-03-30/wa-should-brace-for-public-transport-fee-hikes-opposition/5350688

Fares can go up, but the network has to be quality to do this. Conversely, fares have to go down if your network is rubbish, as people will not value it as much. It is the whole selling rotten apples thing. You cannot sell rotten apples at a premium. If you get fresh apples, then you can put the price up. This is how taxis can charge $20 per 15 minutes (or whatever it is) and why buses cannot get away with charging the same prices, even over the same routes (i.e. Taxi from South Bank to Valley) because people are willing to pay a premium for not sharing the vehicle, direct trip, on call frequency, space for luggage, and so on.

Rail has only just been upgraded (thank goodness). Previously the only decent rail upgrade was when the Corinda services were extended to Springfield, one extra station got improved frequency.

Of course the big elephant in the room that nobody wants to touch is the BCC bus network. People want the taxi trip at bus fare prices. You cannot have both. Sooner or later the numbers will not add up, and no amount of media spin is going to cover that up.

[Gazza]

Previously the only decent rail upgrade was when the Corinda services were extended to Springfield, one extra station got improved frequency.

Two stations 

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest --> New carpooling initiative proposed for Brisbane's northwest in response to public transport changes

[ozbob]

This morning Spencer Howson (612 ABC Brisbane), when interviewing the chap in the article above, mentioned that he himself and his wife have gone back to driving most of the time as the fares are no longer affordable ...

[ozbob]

Media release 29th March 2014 re-released 4th April 2014



SEQ: Fare affordability crisis

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 February 2014 has confirmed that affordability has reached the worst level ever.

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 little wonder then that affordability is the standout failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs (3, 5)."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place (4).  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all.  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."

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive.  Time to act!"

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

References:

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-feb-snapshot.pdf

4.  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10571.msg139861#msg139861

5.  The  February 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

Bob's Blog - The south-east Queensland fare fail ... --> http://railbotforum.org/bb/index.php  #qldpol #auspol // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

[BrizCommuter]

Couriermail Quest --> New carpooling initiative proposed for Brisbane's northwest in response to public transport changes

Another selfish Ferny Grove commuter who has contracted "I want an express to my stationitis".

[aldonius]

At least he's carpooling.
Either way, more seats for everyone else, increased congestion on Samford Rd.

[ozbob]

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

9th April 2014

The south-east Queensland fare fail ...

By Robert Dow, Sunday, April 6 2014.

Fare data, feedback, community consensus has public transport fares in south-east Queensland as grossly unaffordable. How did this situation occur? What should happen from here?

First - how did this occur?

Following a fare freeze in 2009 (a state election year) a five year fare path was embarked on in 2010. This was stated publicly as a fare path designed to increase the fare box as a proportion of the overall cost of public transport services (i.e. decrease the relative subsidy). Sources close to the heart of matters did inform me cryptically that the real purpose of the five year fare path was to slow patronage growth. Fare increases were 40% for paper tickets and 20% for go card in 2010, followed by 15% increases in 2011, 2012. The ALP lost Government in 2012 and the incoming LNP Government reduced the projected 15% increases planned for 2013 and 2014 to 7.5%. However the real compound fare increases over the period 2010-2014 were 83% for go card and 114% for paper. CPI for the same period was around 10%. It is little wonder then that fares in south-east Queensland are now unaffordable for most. Current fares are here.

To complicate matters the ALP introduced the free travel after 10 paid journeys on the go card in 2012. This followed the introduction of the inequitable two paid journey daily cap for Seniors. The LNP simply trumped them by going to the election with a promise to change this to free travel after 9 paid journeys in a week, leaving intact the flawed two paid daily journey cap for Seniors.

The problem with the free after 10 or 9 paid journeys is that it is easily rorted and is a significant fare box leakage.

What should happen from here?

There are 23 zones in south-east Queensland as it is large area, particularly longitudinal.

Regions ..

http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/travel-information/network-information/maps/translink-regions.jpg

TransLink zones

http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/travel-information/network-information/maps/130401_inner-brisbane-zones.jpg

Some local zone anomalies should be sorted as part of a wider adjustment of the fare system, however the basic zones are fine.

Clearly, base fares (the flagfall) is simply too high. Daily capping is problematical because of the wide variation in journey lengths in terms of zones. A dynamic daily cap could be done if the system could cope.

The concept of free after " x " paid journeys in a week is seriously flawed. The system is too easily rorted and it is a fools paradigm. During the go card roll out 50% fares after " x " paid journeys was in place. It was a crass political move by the former Government to introduce the free after 10, which was easily trumped by the LNP as free after nine. Both the 50% fares and the free after " x " journeys reflect the limitations on the system, and difficulty with simple capping with huge zonal variation. So reverting back to 50% fares after " x " journeys is probably the best of the worst of the options available.

Withdraw paper singles January 2015.

As interim measure I think they should adjust the go card fare table for all zones. Set zone one peak at $3.

Increase off peak discount to 30%.

Reintroduce 50% discount after 9 paid journeys in a week.

Keep the present two paid journey daily cap for Seniors but work towards a simple flat fare, similar to Sydney and Melbourne.

Allow children to travel free with a fare paying adult on weekends and holidays.

This would turn around the falling patronage and improve the fare box. And then give some space for the next generation ticketing system which is due in 2016 I understand.

A collateral issue is the poor design of the public transport network, particularly the Brisbane bus network. High cost and very inefficient. This will be another blog post topic.

The LNP stand condemned for not acting and fixing the fare system and simply carrying on with the failed fare path. With a state election due by June 2015, they appear be to content to allow the public to be punished and perhaps roll out a carrot in the shadows of the election.

It is little wonder that recent polling has the LNP in serious trouble.

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

[ozbob]

From the Queensland Times 10th April 2014 page 16

Train fares 'overpriced'

[#Metro]

Laws are only effective if they are accepted by society as being reasonable.
The moment you stray far away from this, people will stop complying.

People don't respect stupid laws, rules and regulations.

If people think fares are too high and the service is a ripoff, they will fare evade. Simple. Crackdowns can only go so far - if too many people do it, you will irritate enough people to cause a public backlash.

The fares are too high. The bus network waste has not been properly fixed.

[ozbob]

For interest:

Fares in 2004 when integrated ticketing introduced ..

--> http://web.archive.org/web/20040625011020/http://www.translink.com.au/qt/TransLin.nsf/index/TransLinkNewSystemFaresZones

Ticketing and fare guide, July 2004 --> http://bit.ly/1nnTJIK

[Derwan]

Fares in 2004 when integrated ticketing introduced ..

My 3-zone fare is now costing more than an 8-zone fare from 2004 - based on single tickets.  For a weekly it's more than a 9-zone fare.

[ozbob]

Between 2004 and 2008 fares increased in line with CPI, although the loss of periodicals from 2008 impacted savagely on many.

2009 no fare increase (election year pork).  The five year fare fail from 2010 to 2014 is where the real damage has been done.

[Thomas Magor]

Bob, you mentioned a few times earlier in the thread the introduction of a "next generation" fare system. Do you have a source for this? Does it entail replacing the GoCard technology entirely, or perhaps just a firmware upgrade?

Secondly, I should probably write this in the thread that discusses the Translink Tracker reports more specifically, but I want to point out that the data in those reports might as well be considered completely and utterly useless. I could not find any mentioned anywhere of the type of sampling methods TransLink used (WHO completed these surveys?), the sample SIZE (HOW MANY people completed these surveys), or any indication about the validity and reliability of the measures they used (WHAT were the specific questions asked?). We have no idea about what the level variability in these responses either. There are many more things I could nit pick, but the main point is that these data are bollocks and can not relied upon. They are simply there to check the box "performance reports publicly shared".

Just briefly, I ran some quick tests on the data they provide (which is only the average AGGREGATED response out of 100 mind you!!!), and for none of the KPIs did I find any of the statistically significant differences in means that they report using red/green text. In other words, none of the things they measured varies (in aggregate) across the time periods presented. Point is, the results in the report cannot be verified using the datasets they provide.

[ozbob]

Bob, you mentioned a few times earlier in the thread the introduction of a "next generation" fare system. Do you have a source for this? Does it entail replacing the GoCard technology entirely, or perhaps just a firmware upgrade?

G'day Thomas.  No ' official ' source, just piecing together a number of private mentions over the last year or so.   I expect they will probably stick with the go card with upgrades, including open payment options as well.  It could be a new system but less likely.

Clues here --> https://secure.publicworks.qld.gov.au/etender/tender/display/tender-details.do?id=11826&action=display-tender-details

--> http://www.intermedium.com.au/content/account-based-ticketing-system-required-queensland-s-public-transport-users

...  The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads' (TMR), bus, ferry and rail service coordinator TransLink has given the first hint of the scope of an updated public transport smartcard with the issue of a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for technical advisory services for its Next Generation Ticketing Project (NGTP) ..

Re Tracker and Snapshot data, it is as useless as tits on a bull! Designed to obfuscate IMHO.  Hence our campaign for them to come to clean with the real data ..

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

20th April 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis

Greetings,

A failure to move now to sort out the failed fare system for SEQ condemns the present Government as a failure.

It makes no sense to waste money by not moving to sort the fares now.  Ensuring the public transport assets are used maximally around the clock will actually reduce the fare box subsidy, improve patronage and have significant flow on economic effects.  Benefits include congestion improvements, reduced health care sector expenditure, reduced environmental impacts and improved business economic multiplier effects.  Particularly as the population becomes more mobile again.  Many cannot afford to use public transport as a discretionary option let alone as a work day commute.

All the other states have fare options that encourage their citizens to get out and about.  Here in south-east Queensland the fares are punishing the citizens and forcing them on to the ever worsening road system, with the associated massive flow on costs.

It is time for change.

Best wishes
Robert

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


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

Media release 29th March 2014 re-released 20th April 2014



SEQ: Fare affordability crisis

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 February 2014 has confirmed that affordability has reached the worst level ever.

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 little wonder then that affordability is the standout failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs (3, 5)."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place (4).  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all.  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."

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive.  Time to act!"

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

References:

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-feb-snapshot.pdf

4.  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10571.msg139861#msg139861

5.  The  February 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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

[ozbob]

Few days in Melbourne last week, travel history on myki (equivalent of go card) ...  note the affordability of fares.

Melbourne fares are most reasonable, a little out of balance particularly with changes flagged for next year.

Myki history - concession card

Date   Time   Transaction Type   Service   Zone   Description   Credit   Debit   myki money Balance
24/04/2014   16:15:09   Touch off   Train   1   Murrumbeena Station   -    -    -
24/04/2014   15:41:54   Touch on   Train   2   Dandenong Station   -    -    -
24/04/2014   14:52:56   Touch off*   Train   2   Dandenong Station   -    $3.03    $34.34
24/04/2014   13:52:14   Touch on   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    -    -
24/04/2014   12:00:55   Touch off   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    -    -
24/04/2014   11:57:16   Touch on   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    -    -
24/04/2014   11:30:08   Touch on   Tram   1   Tram   -    -    -
24/04/2014   11:30:08   Touch off (Default Fare)   Tram   1   Tram   -    -    -
24/04/2014   11:02:02   Touch on   Tram   1   Tram   -    -    -
24/04/2014   11:00:35   Touch off   Tram   1   Tram   -    -    -
24/04/2014   10:36:38   Touch on   Tram   1   Tram   -    -    -
24/04/2014   10:25:50   Touch off*   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    $1.79    $37.37
24/04/2014   09:54:22   Touch on   Train   1   Murrumbeena Station   -    -    -

23/04/2014   16:15:16   Touch off   Train   1   Caulfield Station   -    -    -
23/04/2014   15:54:01   Touch on   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    -    -
23/04/2014   15:53:18   Touch off*   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    $3.92    $39.16
23/04/2014   15:08:53   Touch on   Train   -   -   -    -    -
23/04/2014   14:48:38   Touch on   Train   4   Geelong Station   -    -    -
23/04/2014   11:05:17   Touch off*   Train   4   Geelong Station   -    $2.13    $43.08
23/04/2014   10:35:59   Touch on   Train   -   -   -    -    -
23/04/2014   09:20:33   Touch on   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    -    -
23/04/2014   09:08:26   Touch off*   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    $1.79    $45.21
23/04/2014   08:34:13   Touch on   Train   1   Murrumbeena Station   -    -    -

22/04/2014   21:49:00   Touch off*   Train   1   Caulfield Station   -    $5.18    $47.00
22/04/2014   20:28:02   Touch on   Train   -   -   -    -    -
22/04/2014   20:12:19   Touch on   Train   6   Drouin Station   -    -    -
22/04/2014   15:56:36   Touch off*   Train   6   Drouin Station   -    $1.00    $52.18
22/04/2014   15:10:31   Touch on   Train   -   -   -    -    -
22/04/2014   13:57:43   Touch on   Train   2   Dandenong Station   -    -    -
22/04/2014   13:56:13   Touch off   Train   2   Dandenong Station   -    -    -
22/04/2014   13:31:07   Touch on   Train   2   Clayton Station   -    -    -
22/04/2014   13:06:57   Touch off*   Train   2   Clayton Station   -    $1.24    $53.18
22/04/2014   12:15:08   Touch on   Train   2   Dandenong Station   -    -    -
22/04/2014   07:41:22   Reimbursement   -   -   Reimbursement   $38.00    -    $54.42

21/04/2014   16:31:22   Touch off*   Train   1   Carnegie Station   -    $1.79    $16.42
21/04/2014   16:20:34   Touch on   Train   1   Caulfield Station   -    -    -
21/04/2014   14:10:55   Touch off   Train   1   Caulfield Station   -    -    -
21/04/2014   14:04:56   Touch on   Train   1   Murrumbeena Station   -    -    -
21/04/2014   14:04:15   Top up myki money   Train   -   -   $20.00    -    $18.21
21/04/2014   13:13:13   Touch off*   Train   1   Murrumbeena Station   -    $1.79    -$1.79
21/04/2014   12:36:48   Touch on   Train   1   Southern Cross Station   -    

* $38 reimbursement was a transfer from an expired myki

[dancingmongoose]

The one good thing about the fare system is, I might be going to Cooroy on the weekend, and that mean's I'm going to get from Oxley to Cooroy and back for absolutely no cost

[ozbob]

The one good thing about the fare system is, I might be going to Cooroy on the weekend, and that mean's I'm going to get from Oxley to Cooroy and back for absolutely no cost

  I know of folks travelling to and from Cooroy and beyond on a Tuesday of any given week for free  ...  go the rort!

[Fares_Fair]

The one good thing about the fare system is, I might be going to Cooroy on the weekend, and that mean's I'm going to get from Oxley to Cooroy and back for absolutely no cost

  I know of folks travelling to and from Cooroy and beyond on a Tuesday of any given week for free  ...  go the rort!

When 42% of our weekday trains are buses from Caboolture to Nambour ... need to do something (or not do something in this case) to encourage patronage. 

To digress:
This reminds me of this brilliant Dilbert cartoon I had up on my wall at work a while ago but lost.
The boss tells Dilbert that they have won the contract to install a wireless network for a price.
Dilbert asks how can we do it for that price.
The boss' reply - "how hard can it be to not install wires."

[ozbob]

Media release 6th May 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 March 2014 has again confirmed that affordability is still tracking along in the 'cellar of despair'.

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 little wonder then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs (3, 5)."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place (4).  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all.  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."

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive.  Time to act!"

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

References:

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-mar-snapshot.pdf

4.  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10571.msg139861#msg139861

5.  The March 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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

[ozbob]

For interest ...

Railway Gazette --> Free metro travel spreads the peak load

SINGAPORE: Land Transport Authority is to extend its free pre-peak metro travel scheme by one year to June 23 2015. Passengers who end their journey at 18 central metro stations before 07.45 on weekdays get free travel, while those exiting between 07.45 and 08.00 get a discount.

About 7% of commuters have shifted their travel out of the morning peak since the introduction of free travel in last June. This has resulted in a more even distribution of ridership, with the ratio of peak (08.00–09.00) to pre-peak (07.00–8.00) travel falling from 2·7 to 2·1.

An LTA survey found most commuters who changed times did so because of the free travel. Two out of three of those who had not shifted said this was because they do not have flexible work arrangements, and so LTA is to intensify efforts to encourage organisations to implement flexible working arrangements.

[BrizCommuter]

For interest ...

Railway Gazette --> Free metro travel spreads the peak load

SINGAPORE: Land Transport Authority is to extend its free pre-peak metro travel scheme by one year to June 23 2015. Passengers who end their journey at 18 central metro stations before 07.45 on weekdays get free travel, while those exiting between 07.45 and 08.00 get a discount.

About 7% of commuters have shifted their travel out of the morning peak since the introduction of free travel in last June. This has resulted in a more even distribution of ridership, with the ratio of peak (08.00–09.00) to pre-peak (07.00–8.00) travel falling from 2·7 to 2·1.

An LTA survey found most commuters who changed times did so because of the free travel. Two out of three of those who had not shifted said this was because they do not have flexible work arrangements, and so LTA is to intensify efforts to encourage organisations to implement flexible working arrangements.

Peak/off-peak times based on the journey finish time - how novel. Too hard in QLD! 

[ozbob]

Yo!  We really are a fare backwater in SEQ ... 

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

18th May 2014

The SEQ fare fail

Greetings,

Interesting to see how more enlightened jurisdictions do things.  In Queensland mediocrity rules ...

Railway Gazette --> Free metro travel spreads the peak load

    SINGAPORE: Land Transport Authority is to extend its free pre-peak metro travel scheme by one year to June 23 2015. Passengers who end their journey at 18 central metro stations before 07.45 on weekdays get free travel, while those exiting between 07.45 and 08.00 get a discount.

    About 7% of commuters have shifted their travel out of the morning peak since the introduction of free travel in last June. This has resulted in a more even distribution of ridership, with the ratio of peak (08.00–09.00) to pre-peak (07.00–8.00) travel falling from 2·7 to 2·1.

    An LTA survey found most commuters who changed times did so because of the free travel. Two out of three of those who had not shifted said this was because they do not have flexible work arrangements, and so LTA is to intensify efforts to encourage organisations to implement flexible working arrangements.

You are welcome!

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

20th April 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis

Greetings,

A failure to move now to sort out the failed fare system for SEQ condemns the present Government as a failure.

It makes no sense to waste money by not moving to sort the fares now.  Ensuring the public transport assets are used maximally around the clock will actually reduce the fare box subsidy, improve patronage and have significant flow on economic effects.  Benefits include congestion improvements, reduced health care sector expenditure, reduced environmental impacts and improved business economic multiplier effects.  Particularly as the population becomes more mobile again.  Many cannot afford to use public transport as a discretionary option let alone as a work day commute.

All the other states have fare options that encourage their citizens to get out and about.  Here in south-east Queensland the fares are punishing the citizens and forcing them on to the ever worsening road system, with the associated massive flow on costs.

It is time for change.

Best wishes
Robert

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


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

Media release 29th March 2014 re-released 20th April 2014



SEQ: Fare affordability crisis

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 February 2014 has confirmed that affordability has reached the worst level ever.

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 little wonder then that affordability is the standout failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs (3, 5)."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place (4).  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all.  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."

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive.  Time to act!"

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

References:

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-feb-snapshot.pdf

4.  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10571.msg139861#msg139861

5.  The  February 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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

[ozbob]

Media release 20th May 2014

SEQ: Time for a new or upgraded ticketing 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 bizarre fare system in place for south-east Queensland is partly the result of limited options on the present go card system.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The lack of flexible cost effective programming options for the go card has meant that SEQ has ended up with a crazy fare system.  Easily rorted, high base fare cost, and complicated journey caps which confuse many. Fare affordability is tracking along at its lowest levels ever and is the standout failure of all the TransLink KPIs (1). Public transport patronage has stagnated."

"The latest data from TransLink shows that there was an average of 1.97% fixed fares of all go card trips during March 2014, that is every 50 times a go card is used a fixed fare is generated (2). Subsequently only 1 in 15 fixed fares is adjusted. This is further confirmation of a failing system."

"Daily caps, differential fare pricing based on touch off times encourages maximum fare box and maximum patronage (3, 4) without the present high cost rorting. These ticketing options are not able to be programmed on the present system apparently.  It is time to move into the next generation of ticketing to include various payment options.  The present fare system is a shambles (5)."

Contact:

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

References:

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

2. There were 12.82 adjustments per 10000 trips during March 2014 = 0.13% of all go card trips

This means then that 1.97/0.13 = 15.2 trips,  so for every 15 fixed fares only one on average is being adjusted.

3. The SEQ fare fail http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg142219#msg142219

4. Free metro travel spreads the peak load http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/urban/single-view/view/free-metro-travel-spreads-the-peak-load.html

5. 6 May 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ... http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10701.0

[ozbob]

From the Queensland Times 22nd May 2014 page 14

STREET TALK | is public transport too expensive?



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

" YEAH, way too expensive.  I use it four times a day at $5.20 a trip "

Sometimes you need to do the right thing for folks ... 

[dancingmongoose]

That last one though...

Is public transport too expensive?
Yes I do.

[ozbob]

That last one though...

Is public transport too expensive?
Yes I do.

might be a minor typo ...

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

24th May 2014

Where is the new fare structure? crickets ....

Greetings,

In the Six month action plan of January 2013 ( http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf page 6 ) the Premier indicated that he would " Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland. "

We are still waiting.  Will there be some moves to meet this committment in the forthcoming state budget?   A failing fare system costs money.  Fixing the fare system will save money,  leads to an improved fare box recovery, gets people back onto public transport, which in turn saves more money as congestion is reduced, health care sector costs are reduced, environmental impacts lessened.

The 2013/14 Queensland Budget  increased fares yet again in 2014 by 7.5%, that is not a new fare structure.
Confirming that the free after 9 fare rort is to continue is not a new fare structure.  ( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9502.msg127364#msg127364 )
Many people now freely confess to taking extra journeys on Mondays/Tuesdays to position themselves for the ' free travel ' rort for the rest of the working week.

The whole accounting process for the free after nine or ten is rather nebulous at best.
For example, when convenient, the Government likes to spin the fact that the subsidy per average  trip is roughly $6 and fares $2.
So the journey to work Friday morning costs on average $8, but the journey home (assuming 10th journey reached) only costs $2 according to the spin merchants and shoddy accounting.

It is time that the correct approach is taken.  A proper fare review with a fare system that will reverse the slide at present.

This fare box leakage is becoming massive, and is only sustainable by the massive fare increases.

Affordability is at the lowest levels ever.  Patronage continues to stall.

A Government that is actually in control would act to reverse the trends of increasing subsidy, worsening affordability and stagnation in patronage.

The poor network design, particularly the Brisbane Transport network compounds the costs.  TransLink attempted to fix the network issues but were pushed aside by hysterical politics, and weak leadership.

It is time for action.  Queensland votes soon.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[techblitz]

the government has a choice...continue to see fare evasion rise (the unemployed would no doubt be a major contributor to the evasion numbers), or give them thier concessions.
If they cant fund the concession...then look at reducing the school and uni student discounts....balance things out a little at least for peats sake

[ozbob]

the government has a choice...continue to see fare evasion rise (the unemployed would no doubt be a major contributor to the evasion numbers), or give them thier concessions.

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times 26th May 2014 page 25

Wait lingers on for action plan on new fare structure for SEQ

[ozbob]

Will the Queensland Budget address the festering fare mess of SEQ?

29th May 2014

Greetings,

In the Six month action plan of January 2013 ( http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf page 6 ) the Premier indicated that he would " Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland. "

We are still waiting.  Will there be some moves to meet this committment in the forthcoming state budget?   A failing fare system costs money.  Fixing the fare system will save money,  leads to an improved fare box recovery, gets people back onto public transport, which in turn saves more money as congestion is reduced, health care sector costs are reduced, environmental impacts lessened.

The 2013/14 Queensland Budget  increased fares yet again in 2014 by 7.5%, that is not a new fare structure.
Confirming that the free after 9 fare rort is to continue is not a new fare structure. 
( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9502.msg127364#msg127364 )

Attempts to spin fare increases of 7.5% as a new fare structure have failed.
In a statement on the 25 October 2012 ( http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2012/10/25/affordability-up-on-lnp-fare-package ) the fare increases of 7.5% were flagged. In January 2013 the Premier then indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ. Has NOT happened.

Many people now freely confess to taking extra journeys on Mondays/Tuesdays to position themselves for the ' free travel ' rort for the rest of the working week. Cashed up 'suits' can rort the system easily, a mother with a couple of children cannot afford the bus fare to the local shops. What a silly anti-public transport fare system. A system that is 'bleeding' massive amounts of money because people cannot afford to to use it, compounded by a very inefficient overall network design.

The whole accounting process for the free after nine or ten is rather nebulous at best.
For example, when convenient, the Government likes to spin the fact that the subsidy per average  trip is roughly $6 and fares $2.
So the journey to work Friday morning costs on average $8, but the journey home (assuming 10th journey reached) only costs $2 according to the spin merchants and shoddy accounting.

It is time that the correct approach is taken.  A proper fare review with a fare system that will reverse the slide at present.  Will this mess be addressed in the forthcoming state budget?

This fare box leakage is becoming massive, and is only sustainable by the massive fare increases.

Affordability is at the worst levels ever.  Patronage continues to stall.

A Government that is actually in control would act to reverse the trends of increasing subsidy, worsening affordability and stagnation in patronage.

The poor network design, particularly the Brisbane Transport network compounds the costs.  TransLink attempted to fix the network issues but were pushed aside by hysterical politics, and weak leadership.

It is time for action.  Queensland votes soon.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

30th May 2014

Fare ' unaffordability ' crisis worsens for SEQ public transport

Greetings,

TransLink - Public transport performance data April 2014 is now available. See -->  http://translink.com.au/content/public-transport-performance-data

Fare ' unaffordability ' crisis worsens ' - Rail and ferry are now at the worst levels ever recorded. 

Will the Government finally find the courage and commonsense to act?  Or are they going to continue to hide behind the five year fare fail and blame the previous Government?



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

All KPIs have fallen.  See page 1  http://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/open-data/2014-apr-snapshot.pdf

What a sad indictment on mediocre policy.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Will the Queensland Budget address the festering fare mess of SEQ?

29th May 2014

Greetings,

In the Six month action plan of January 2013 ( http://www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/plans-and-progress/plans/assets/6-month-action-plan-jan-jun-13.pdf page 6 ) the Premier indicated that he would " Announce new fare structure for public transport in South East Queensland. "

We are still waiting.  Will there be some moves to meet this committment in the forthcoming state budget?   A failing fare system costs money.  Fixing the fare system will save money,  leads to an improved fare box recovery, gets people back onto public transport, which in turn saves more money as congestion is reduced, health care sector costs are reduced, environmental impacts lessened.

The 2013/14 Queensland Budget  increased fares yet again in 2014 by 7.5%, that is not a new fare structure.
Confirming that the free after 9 fare rort is to continue is not a new fare structure. 
( http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9502.msg127364#msg127364 )

Attempts to spin fare increases of 7.5% as a new fare structure have failed.
In a statement on the 25 October 2012 ( http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2012/10/25/affordability-up-on-lnp-fare-package ) the fare increases of 7.5% were flagged. In January 2013 the Premier then indicated that there would be a new fare structure for SEQ. Has NOT happened.

Many people now freely confess to taking extra journeys on Mondays/Tuesdays to position themselves for the ' free travel ' rort for the rest of the working week. Cashed up 'suits' can rort the system easily, a mother with a couple of children cannot afford the bus fare to the local shops. What a silly anti-public transport fare system. A system that is 'bleeding' massive amounts of money because people cannot afford to to use it, compounded by a very inefficient overall network design.

The whole accounting process for the free after nine or ten is rather nebulous at best.
For example, when convenient, the Government likes to spin the fact that the subsidy per average  trip is roughly $6 and fares $2.
So the journey to work Friday morning costs on average $8, but the journey home (assuming 10th journey reached) only costs $2 according to the spin merchants and shoddy accounting.

It is time that the correct approach is taken.  A proper fare review with a fare system that will reverse the slide at present.  Will this mess be addressed in the forthcoming state budget?

This fare box leakage is becoming massive, and is only sustainable by the massive fare increases.

Affordability is at the worst levels ever.  Patronage continues to stall.

A Government that is actually in control would act to reverse the trends of increasing subsidy, worsening affordability and stagnation in patronage.

The poor network design, particularly the Brisbane Transport network compounds the costs.  TransLink attempted to fix the network issues but were pushed aside by hysterical politics, and weak leadership.

It is time for action.  Queensland votes soon.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

^ Fairfax radio news have followed up, thanks for the interest!   

[ozbob]

Media release 31st May 2014



SEQ: Fare affordability crisis worsens

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 April 2014 has again confirmed that affordability has worsened and is still tracking along in the 'cellar of despair'.

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 little wonder then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs (3, 5). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for ferry and rail."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place (4).  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all.  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."

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive.  Time to act!"

Contact:

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

References:

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-apr-snapshot.pdf

4.  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10571.msg139861#msg139861

5.  The April 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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