2014 fares

[#Metro]

How low does fare affordability have to go before the cost-explosive bus and rail networks are reformed so that fares can stop going through the roof!

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Re: Fare ' unaffordability ' crisis worsens for SEQ public transport

Greetings,

Not addressing the fare unaffordability crisis in SEQ in tonight's budget, will no doubt be a harbinger for the end of the present government.  Nothing surer.

Fixing the fare system will actually save money.  A point that our present leaders seem to not grasp.  So be it.  Time for new leaders?

Best wishes
Robert

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

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]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times 3rd June 2014 page 13

Failed fare system

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Concession fares - 2014/15 Queensland Budget

Greetings,

The 2014/15 budget has the proposal to cut back concessions on public transport from 50%  to only 35%.

Fare affordability in SEQ is at crisis levels all ready.  If this goes ahead this will be devastating for those struggling to pay the fares.

Fare evasion will no doubt  continue to climb.  Many Seniors will have reduced social mobility. This will in turn impact  as increased costs on the health sector as health and well being deteriorates.

Other States and Territories of Australia do not punish those least able to afford the fares.  Queensland LNP does.

This proposed budget measure is a disaster for Queensland.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Re: Fare ' unaffordability ' crisis worsens for SEQ public transport

Greetings,

Not addressing the fare unaffordability crisis in SEQ in tonight's budget, will no doubt be a harbinger for the end of the present government.  Nothing surer.

Fixing the fare system will actually save money.  A point that our present leaders seem to not grasp.  So be it.  Time for new leaders?

Best wishes
Robert

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

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]

Media release 3rd June 2014

SEQ: Budget fails to address the fare failure 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 the 2014/15 State Budget has let the opportunity to fix the failed fare system slide by.  This will be very costly as subsidies increase and patronage continues to fall, with commensurate broader flow on costs to the health sector, with congestion and environmental impacts.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"In what can only be described as a serious indictment on the public transport authorities, patronage on the SEQ public transport is projected to fall and the average cost of subsidy of each trip to increase in the budget. This is perverse."


"The fact that concession fares look like also being set at 35% instead of 50% of full fares, prior to the next years fare increase, means it is only going to cost more in the longer term directly and indirectly."

"The correct thing to do is fix the fare system. Easily done. This will in turn decrease the public subsidy and see patronage climb. Very desirable outcomes.  Outcomes that will not be achieved however under this Government."

Reference:

1. http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/

Contact:

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

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Concession fares - 2014/15 Queensland Budget

Greetings,

The 2014/15 budget has the proposal to cut back concessions on public transport from 50%  to only 35%.

Fare affordability in SEQ is at crisis levels all ready.  If this goes ahead this will be devastating for those struggling to pay the fares.

Fare evasion will no doubt  continue to climb.  Many Seniors will have reduced social mobility. This will in turn impact  as increased costs on the health sector as health and well being deteriorates.

Other States and Territories of Australia do not punish those least able to afford the fares.  Queensland LNP does.

This proposed budget measure is a disaster for Queensland.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Re: Fare ' unaffordability ' crisis worsens for SEQ public transport

Greetings,

Not addressing the fare unaffordability crisis in SEQ in tonight's budget, will no doubt be a harbinger for the end of the present government.  Nothing surer.

Fixing the fare system will actually save money.  A point that our present leaders seem to not grasp.  So be it.  Time for new leaders?

Best wishes
Robert

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

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!

[Stillwater]

C-M reporting in its 2014-15 state budget coverage:

- Cost of subsidising average public transport journey rising from $6.58 to $7.10
- Public transport patronage forecast to fall by 1.64 million trips in 2014-15

[ozbob]

Twitter

Scott Emerson ‏@scottemersonmp 20m

Public transport fare changes capped at 2.5% pa for the next 3 yrs - below CPI & ends Labor's 15% pa fare hikes. #qldbudget

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

[ozbob]

http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/current-budget/budget-papers/concessions-statement.php

page 33

TransLink Transport Concessions (South East
Queensland) 106.6 120.2
Public transport concessions in South East Queensland are provided by the Government
to ensure access and mobility for Queenslanders who require assistance because of age,
disability or fixed low income. Passengers entitled to receive public transport
concessions include holders of a Pensioner Concession Card, Veterans' Affairs Gold
Card, Seniors Card (all states and territories), Companion Card, Vision Impairment
Travel Pass, TPI Veteran Travel Pass, children, as well as secondary and tertiary
students. For a peak two zone journey using a go card, the concession will reduce an
adult fare from $4.14 to $2.07.
The fare reduction provided under this concession in 2014-15 will be adjusted as a
consequence of the Australian Government's decision to terminate the National
Partnership Agreement on Certain Concessions for Pensioner Concession Card and
Seniors Card Holders (the NPA) from 1 July 2014. Refer to section 1 for further
information.
2013

Also interstate Seniors will no longer have concession fares ..

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Re: SEQ: Budget fails to address the fare failure in SEQ

Greetings,

The real effects of setting concession fares at 35% discount of full fares (presently half 50%).

Zone one go card fare $3.53  present concession $1.77.  65% of $3.53 = $2.29  add to that 2.5% increase planned for Jan 2015 than  fare = $2.35

Then $2.35 - $1.77 =  .58/1.77 = 33% fare increase.  This can only be described as savage for the least able to afford it.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[Stillwater]

Does this decision to change the concession fare reduction from 50 per cent to 35 per cent and the cap on fare rises at 2.5 per cent for three years represent the 'fare review' the Premier, Mr Newman, promised us?

[James]

I am assuming that this reduction affects high school and University/TAFE students as well.

If it does, goodbye public transport!

[ozbob]

From the Brisbanetimes --> Queensland budget 2014: Bus, train and ferry fares to increase less than expected

Fares on trains, buses and ferries will increase by 2.5 per cent - not 7.5 per cent - from January 1 as a result of the Queensland budget, Transport Minister Scott Emerson says.

And the smaller than expected increase will remain in place for the next three years.

There is a $59 million increase in a fund which provides transport concessions to commuters.

That fund to cover the expense jumps from $1063.6 million to $1220 million in the 2014-15 financial year.

The Newman government decided to halve the 15 per cent annual public transport fare increases to 7.5 per cent when it won office.

Now from January 1 in 2015, public transport fares in Southeast Queensland will increase by 2.5 per cent, not by the 7.5 per cent originally budgeted, Mr Emerson said.

"We promised to do more to improve public transport affordability and we have a strong plan to do just that," he said.

"This budget announces fares increases will be capped at 2.5 per cent for the next three years, saving millions of passengers hundreds of dollars."

"This follows our election promise to halve Labor's 15 per cent fare hikes in 2013 and 2014, along with the successful free travel after nine weekly Go Card journeys."

The state government estimates the average cost per passenger trip of the lower fare increase is $7.10 in 2014-15.

However Robert Dow from public transport lobby group Rail: Back on Track said cuts to seniors' concessions could have a dramatic effect.

"The 2014-15 budget has the proposal to cut back concessions on public transport from 50 per cent  to only 35 per cent," Mr Dow said.

"Fare affordability in SEQ is at crisis levels already. If this goes ahead this will be devastating for those struggling to pay the fares.''

The seniors' concessions are the result of cutbacks in the federal government budget a fortnight ago.

Mr Dow said seniors already had restricted "social mobility".

"Fare evasion will no doubt continue to climb," he predicted.

He said the lack of seniors' concessions could also increase the costs of travelling to hospitals.

"This proposed budget measure is a disaster for Queensland,'' he said.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/queensland-budget-2014-bus-train-and-ferry-fares-to-increase-less-than-expected-20140603-zrwlj.html

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

4th June 2014

Comment: SEQ: Budget fails to address the fare failure in SEQ

Greetings,

The fundamental issue with public transport in SEQ is poor network design.  This in turn leads to high operating costs and the failed high cost fares.

The failure to support TransLink in 2013 with the proposed network changes is now coming home to roost.  Public transport users are being belted because of a failed political leadership group, previously ALP now LNP.

The present political leadership is apparently unable to make the real tough decisions and get on with it.  No, they just continue down the failed fare path with a failed fare system, rather than fixing it.

The limited data made available publicly already has the unaffordability of fares in SEQ at the worst levels ever.  Increasing fares for concession holders by over 30% is going to break them, particularly as fare increases since 2010 have been around 100% already.  This does not include the loss of periodical tickets such as daily, weekly, monthly and yearly tickets which means for some fare increases have been several hundreds of per cent.

We have reported our observations with fare evasion.  It is out of control on the network, and will probably get worse from here.  Two distinct technologies - go card and the obscenely priced paper tickets - is just making it worse for users and the authorities.

For the Minister for Transport to claim that hundreds of millions of dollars will be saved by only increasing fares 2.5% annually for the next three years is nonsense.  Because the network and fare system is in failure mode the costs of that mediocrity will swamp any notion of theoretical savings from only CPI increases or thereabout.  In fact commuters are not saving anything really but are having to pay more as taxpayers to continue to support failed political leadership.  Driving people away from public transport costs a lot more than a sound fare path.

I intend to conduct 'education' sessions for Seniors and other disadvantaged groups on the go card.  The go card is easily rorted and with the projected fare increases the only defence people will have will be to rort the system.  This in turn is going to lead to even more fare box leakage and increased fare subsidies.  Fix it?  No, lets just keeping on wandering down the path of mediocrity.

Smart jurisdictions understand that public transport (transit) delivers 300% year on year financial return of investment*.  Here in Queensland the preferred path is clearly high cost road congestion and grid lock.

It is time there was an inquiry into the failed public transport network and fare system in SEQ.

Best wishes
Robert

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

* http://www.planetizen.com/node/69020

From an individual household's perspective, public transit investments are often very cost effective. According to analysis described in our study, Raise My Taxes, Please! Evaluating Household Savings From High Quality Public Transit Service, providing high quality public transit service typically requires about $268 in annual subsidies and $108 in additional fares per capita, but reduces vehicle, parking and road costs an average of $1,040 per capita. This is more than a 300% annual financial return on investment, in addition to other benefits including congestion reductions, reduced traffic accidents, pollution emission reductions, improved mobility for non-drivers, and improved public fitness and health. Physically and economically disadvantaged people tend to enjoy particularly large savings and benefits since they rely on alternative modes and are price sensitive.

Media release 3rd June 2014

SEQ: Budget fails to address the fare failure 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 the 2014/15 State Budget has let the opportunity to fix the failed fare system slide by.  This will be very costly as subsidies increase and patronage continues to fall, with commensurate broader flow on costs to the health sector, with congestion and environmental impacts.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"In what can only be described as a serious indictment on the public transport authorities, patronage on the SEQ public transport is projected to fall and the average cost of subsidy of each trip to increase in the budget. This is perverse."

"The fact that concession fares look like also being set at 35% instead of 50% of full fares, prior to the next years fare increase, means it is only going to cost more in the longer term directly and indirectly."

"The correct thing to do is fix the fare system. Easily done. This will in turn decrease the public subsidy and see patronage climb. Very desirable outcomes.  Outcomes that will not be achieved however under this Government."

Reference:

1. http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/

Contact:

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

Sent to all outlets:

3rd June 2014

Re: SEQ: Budget fails to address the fare failure in SEQ

Greetings,

The real effects of setting concession fares at 35% discount of full fares (presently half 50%).

Zone one go card fare $3.53  present concession $1.77.  65% of $3.53 = $2.29  add to that 2.5% increase planned for Jan 2015 than  fare = $2.35

Then $2.35 - $1.77 =  .58/1.77 = 33% fare increase.  This can only be described as savage for the least able to afford it.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Public transport fares rise under Queensland State Budget 2014, but future increases capped

[BrizCommuter]

The LNP state government spin machine has completely lost the plot if they think a 2.5% fare increase is "saving commuters money". Voters are not that stupid!

At least they have acknowledged that the subsidy will increase, and patronage will fall, but they need to take responsibility for their own failures to make the fare structure more affordable.

[ozbob]

Media release 5th June 2014

SEQ: Outrage to proposed concession fare increases highlights the fare failure 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 the blistering public reaction to proposed 33% fare cost increases for concession card holders confirms the failure of the fare system in SEQ (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Since 2010 we have constantly highlighted the fact that the fare system for south-east Queensland is off the rails. With one of the most costly and bizarre fare structures, no amount of spin is going to cover up the failure now."

"We have outlined the steps that should be taken immediately, and in the longer term to fix it."

Because the go card system has limitations.  These are our recommended immediate measures.

1. Reset base fares on go card.  Zone one fare $2.50, with 40 cent increments to zone 10, then 80 cent increments to zone 23.

2. Increase off peak discount to 30%.

3. Remove the free travel after 9 paid journeys in a week. This is nothing but a rort and is a cause of significant fare box leakage.  Replace with 50% fares after 9 paid journeys in a week.  This will greatly reduce the rorting, and in any case still return a fare box.

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

5. Concession card holders - fares remain 50% of adult fares.

Longer term a proper fare review with public consultation to be conducted.  A new fare system introduced that can accommodate better fare options eg. daily capping, and open payment systems.

"If the above strategies were adopted, the public subsidy would be reduced and patronage would climb.  This in turn leads to further significant savings in terms of reduced health care sector costs, the rampant road congestion would be improved, lessened environmental impacts."

"It is not rocket science - it is basic fare policy 101!"

Reference:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10754.msg142768#msg142768

Contact:

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

[#Metro]

Remove the free travel after 9 paid journeys in a week. This is nothing but a rort and is a cause of significant fare box leakage.  Replace with 50% fares after 9 paid journeys in a week.  This will greatly reduce the rorting, and in any case still return a fare box.

I don't believe there should be any discount on trips you are going to make anyway. The only discounts there should be IMHO is for concession and off peak - and these could probably be rolled into one rate (i.e. no discount on a discount) as well.

Some kind of capping arrangement may be in order, like Melbourne. There you can choose a zone pass or a loose credits option or have a bit of both.

[ozbob]

Ultimately capping.  To allow transition 50% after nine for the time being.  Go card cannot handle capping at present.

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor Queensland Times 5th June 2014 page 15

Failed transport system

[Derwan]

Ultimately capping.  To allow transition 50% after nine for the time being.  Go card cannot handle capping at present.

Capping (or more flexible options) should be written into the tender document for the next generation ticketing system.  A supplier shouldn't be considered if they can't ensure flexibility in the fare structure.

[techblitz]

Because the go card system has limitations.  These are our recommended immediate measures.

1. Reset base fares on go card.  Zone one fare $2.50, with 40 cent increments to zone 10, then 80 cent increments to zone 23.

2. Increase off peak discount to 30%.

3. Remove the free travel after 9 paid journeys in a week. This is nothing but a rort and is a cause of significant fare box leakage.  Replace with 50% fares after 9 paid journeys in a week.  This will greatly reduce the rorting, and in any case still return a fare box.

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

5. Concession card holders fares remain 50% of adult fares.

not interested in daily capping ozbob?

[ozbob]

That is just setting up something that can work under the present system constraints. Capping cannot be done under present system.

A transition until the next generation ticketing system which I expect would have capping.

[ozbob]

Media release 23 June 2014



SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today

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

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 bus and rail which is the bulk of trips in SEQ."

"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."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all (6).  It is just a massive rort!"

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system.  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 May 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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

Affordability May


6.  16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

[ozbob]

^ a very sad indictment on a failed fare system ..

One has to laugh, as is typical, late Friday release of data in an attempt to avoid proper scrutiny of course ..

NOT fixing this fare disgrace is tantamount to serious neglect by the authorities IMHO.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

23rd June 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today

Greetings,

For those unable to grasp the real issues here is a quick synopsis of the problem.

The free after x journeys in a week results in fare box leakage, which in turn means higher base fare costs and less money overall for the farebox.  It dissuades discretionary trips on public transport because the fares are too expensive for many.  Others simply rort the system and do very well, at the cost of the community at large.

TransLink's data confirms that fare unaffordability has never been worse in SEQ.  Fares in SEQ are around twice to three times the cost of fares in other Australian jurisdictions.  Fares in SEQ are twice the cost of fares for Q-connect (regional urban bus public transport).

Why?  The failed fare system is one factor, the other is the high cost, low efficiency network design.  TransLink did attempt to sort that in 2013 (remember the bus review?).  But weak politics and hysterical media saw that kicked into touch.  We still have the failed network. Add the failed fare system it is little wonder people cannot afford to use the public transport as they otherwise could.

Fares elsewhere.  Fare failure SEQ is confirmed.

===========

Twitter

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what a sensible fare system looks like > http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/tickets-fares/fares ... #qldpol #wapol // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what a sensible fare system looks like - Cairns >http://www.sunbus.com.au/documents/2014Fares_Cairns.pdf ... #qldpol #fnq // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what a sensible fare system looks like - Tasmania > http://www.metrotas.com.au/ticketsfares  #qldpol #taspol // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what a sensible fare system looks like - Canberra myway > http://www.transport.act.gov.au/catch_a_bus/myway/fares ... #qldpol #actpol // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what an affordable fare system looks like Melb myki > http://ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/metropolitan-myki-fares/ ... #qldpol #springst // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what an affordable fare system looks like Sydney Opal > https://www.opal.com.au/en/fare-information/ ... #qldpol #nswpol // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Robert Dow @Robert_Dow

This is what an unaffordable & botched fare system looks like - SEQ > http://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fares ... #qldpol // @scottemersonmp @SteveMinnikinMP

==========

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 23 June 2014



SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today

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

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 bus and rail which is the bulk of trips in SEQ."

"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."

"The nine and free fare paradigm is leading to massive fare box leakage and is NOT making fares affordable at all (6).  It is just a massive rort!"

"There are very big cost savings to be made by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system.  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 May 2014 Public transport performance data for affordability:

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

Affordability May


6.  16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

[ozbob]

Adelaide is consistently beating Brisbane in tourism polls liveability etc.  Kind of amazing for some, but not me.

One simple thing.

Metro Adelaide Visitors Pass $25 for three days unlimited PT ... > http://adelaidemetro.com.au/Visitor-Pass-Campaign/Home

Best available in SEQ. 

Lets say our intrepid tourist takes the very unlikely path to a nine journey one zone off peak rort.

9 x $2.83 = $25.47  ..  take more than a few hours to get there ... can then travel ' free ' for the remainder of the week ... value really depends on the day of the week they make the rort move.

SEQ

SEEQ Adult 3-Day Pass >  http://shop.translink.com.au/epages/shop.sf/en_AU/?ObjectPath=/Shops/shop/Categories/SEEQ

3 consecutive calendar days travel on any TransLink bus, train, or ferry service for customers aged 15 years of age and over.  Includes up to 2 Airtrain trips.

Must complete use within 12 months of purchase date.

AU$79.00

Has some good discounts but what if you don't want that?

Go the rort!!

[ozbob]

Letter to the Editor published Queensland Times 24th June 2014 page 13

Concessionary deal results in 'fare box leakage' for railway

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robyn Ironside ‏@ironsider 27m

In shock at the efficiency, ease of use and affordability of New York subway. What an asset! It's pretty clean too.

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson
Wednesday, July 02, 2014

Labor to hike fares up an extra 10 per cent

Passengers would pay 10 per cent more for public transport under Labor's plan to scrap the successful free trips after nine weekly journeys incentive.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said while the Queensland Government has a strong plan for a brighter future for bus, ferry and rail passengers, Labor has no plan other than to scrap the free trips scheme that saves passengers as much as $650 a year.

"Labor already had a policy to put fares up by 15 per cent every year and now they want to hike up passengers' public transport bill by another 10 per cent by axing the free-after-nine scheme," Mr Emerson said.

"About 78,500 passengers a week are currently benefiting from the initiative but they would lose their weekly free public transport travel if Labor came back into power.

"This means passengers would have to pay more for public transport or, more likely, choose to travel by car without the incentive of free travel."

Mr Emerson said while Labor Shadow Transport spokesperson Jackie Trad wants the free-after-nine scheme scrapped, her leader Annastacia Palaszczuk said the incentive 'would be welcomed by commuters'.

"The LNP Government has already ended Labor's disastrous policy of annual 15 per cent fare hikes, capping increases for the next three years at 2.5 per cent – below the CPI rate," he said.

"Labor now needs to back our successful initiative that has seen passengers take more than 7.1 million free journeys since June 2012."

Mr Emerson said our strong plan is working with patronage ahead of its target.

"There were 176.7 million trips taken in 2013-14, more than 1 million additional trips than in the previous year," he said.

"We have also delivered 3,000 additional weekly bus and train services since coming to office and trains are running on time as reliability for peak services have improved from a three-year low under Labor to an all-time high of 96 per cent."

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

. @scottemersonmp It is just a massive rort. SEQ fares worst in the nation ... #qldpol > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg143391#msg143391 ... spin doesn't cut it all ..

[SurfRail]

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson
Wednesday, July 02, 2014

Labor to hike fares up an extra 10 per cent

Passengers would pay 10 per cent more for public transport under Labor's plan to scrap the successful free trips after nine weekly journeys incentive.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said while the Queensland Government has a strong plan for a brighter future for bus, ferry and rail passengers, Labor has no plan other than to scrap the free trips scheme that saves passengers as much as $650 a year.

"Labor already had a policy to put fares up by 15 per cent every year and now they want to hike up passengers' public transport bill by another 10 per cent by axing the free-after-nine scheme," Mr Emerson said.

"About 78,500 passengers a week are currently benefiting from the initiative but they would lose their weekly free public transport travel if Labor came back into power.

"This means passengers would have to pay more for public transport or, more likely, choose to travel by car without the incentive of free travel."

Mr Emerson said while Labor Shadow Transport spokesperson Jackie Trad wants the free-after-nine scheme scrapped, her leader Annastacia Palaszczuk said the incentive 'would be welcomed by commuters'.

"The LNP Government has already ended Labor's disastrous policy of annual 15 per cent fare hikes, capping increases for the next three years at 2.5 per cent – below the CPI rate," he said.

"Labor now needs to back our successful initiative that has seen passengers take more than 7.1 million free journeys since June 2012."

Mr Emerson said our strong plan is working with patronage ahead of its target.

"There were 176.7 million trips taken in 2013-14, more than 1 million additional trips than in the previous year," he said.

"We have also delivered 3,000 additional weekly bus and train services since coming to office and trains are running on time as reliability for peak services have improved from a three-year low under Labor to an all-time high of 96 per cent."

Get stuffed you hack.

[ozbob]

5.30am News 4BC:   I made these points.  Minister says it takes 10 working days for the TTCC, and there is no backlog.

TransLink say it takes 15 working days.  Some students have reported they have waited months.

6.00am News:  Minister says there is no backlog, only takes 10 days for the TTCC.  If students waiting longer they should contact Translink.

Who do you believe?  Thousands of students or a failing transport bureaucracy?

--> http://www.change.org/en-AU/petitions/scott-emerson-cease-fines-against-students-until-the-backlog-of-tertiary-transport-concession-cards-are-processed

Even Alfred knows the answer to that question ...

[Simon Lovell]

I can´t find where the ALP actually said they'd abolish 9 then free?

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

2nd July 2014

Re: Statement Labor to hike fares up an extra 10 per cent

Greetings,

RAIL Back on Track does not support hi-waste gimmicks while the needy and vulnerable go without. To this end, we support termination of the 9-then free waste plan which gives free trips to people who would make the journey home on Friday anyway, and can pay for it.

We would rather prefer every day low cost equitable fares for all, such as what Perth or Melbourne has. This means a person who two children might actually be able afford to catch the bus to the local shopping centre and also makes fares affordable for the weekly commuter. Fare unaffordability in south-east Queensland is presently at the worst levels ever!

The source of the hi-costs plaguing public transport is two fold. Both parties, ALP and LNP are guilty of failing to tackle the root causes of the cost-explosions and have placed politics before people:

1. Brisbane City Council and its retention of a hi-waste 'taxi-style' bus network which has contributed to 'taxi-style' fares and in our opinion, a cost explosion slamming people on the minimum wage, the unemployed, people on welfare support payments and refugees. It is an embarrassment that Brisbane's sister city of Auckland, NZ did an identical bus review, came to the same conclusions contained within the Translink Bus Review 2013 and is now implementing a connected bus network in New Zealand;

The solution here is to pass legislation terminating BCC's public transport responsibilities through amendment of The City of Brisbane Act 2010 and reform the bus network with a non-cosmetic bus review. This would bring Brisbane into line with all other states and territories. We strongly support competitive contracting of buses as we note that BCC has privatised the CityCat and itself has currently and historically contracted private bus operators to run services.

2. Queensland Rail and the lack of ATP (Automatic Train Protection) and reliance on two staff per train. The staffing costs to operate trains in Brisbane is 100% higher than in Perth and Melbourne because of this inefficiency. This means lower frequency and scarce weekend services. It is not an accident that Perth and Melbourne can afford to run trains frequently on the weekend whereas we cannot.

Perth runs identical trains to QR, made in the same factory. ATP should be installed across the QR SEQ suburban network pronto for safety and capacity reasons and guards converted to train drivers.

Only true reform tackling these two fundamental issues will guarantee a genuinely affordable public transport future at minimum increased subsidy and fare cost to all.

Best wishes
Robert

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

References:

Labor to hike fares up an extra 10 per cent http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2014/7/2/labor-to-hike-fares-up-an-extra-10-per-cent

SEQ: BCC Bus Cost Explosion Engulfs Community http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10458.0

SEQ: Efficiencies required for QR Rail Network too! http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10682.0

SEQ: Suburban rail network needs Automatic Train Protection too! http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9832.0

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson
Wednesday, July 02, 2014

Labor to hike fares up an extra 10 per cent

Passengers would pay 10 per cent more for public transport under Labor's plan to scrap the successful free trips after nine weekly journeys incentive.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said while the Queensland Government has a strong plan for a brighter future for bus, ferry and rail passengers, Labor has no plan other than to scrap the free trips scheme that saves passengers as much as $650 a year.

"Labor already had a policy to put fares up by 15 per cent every year and now they want to hike up passengers' public transport bill by another 10 per cent by axing the free-after-nine scheme," Mr Emerson said.

"About 78,500 passengers a week are currently benefiting from the initiative but they would lose their weekly free public transport travel if Labor came back into power.

"This means passengers would have to pay more for public transport or, more likely, choose to travel by car without the incentive of free travel."

Mr Emerson said while Labor Shadow Transport spokesperson Jackie Trad wants the free-after-nine scheme scrapped, her leader Annastacia Palaszczuk said the incentive 'would be welcomed by commuters'.

"The LNP Government has already ended Labor's disastrous policy of annual 15 per cent fare hikes, capping increases for the next three years at 2.5 per cent – below the CPI rate," he said.

"Labor now needs to back our successful initiative that has seen passengers take more than 7.1 million free journeys since June 2012."

Mr Emerson said our strong plan is working with patronage ahead of its target.

"There were 176.7 million trips taken in 2013-14, more than 1 million additional trips than in the previous year," he said.

"We have also delivered 3,000 additional weekly bus and train services since coming to office and trains are running on time as reliability for peak services have improved from a three-year low under Labor to an all-time high of 96 per cent."

[ozbob]

I can´t find where the ALP actually said they'd abolish 9 then free?

Mr Emerson and Ms Trad do a weekly gig on 4BC NewsTalk.  I assume it was said during the course of one of those sessions.

[Simon Lovell]

I can´t find where the ALP actually said they'd abolish 9 then free?

Mr Emerson and Ms Trad do a weekly gig on 4BC NewsTalk.  I assume it was said during the course of one of those sessions.

Hmm, I never knew that.  I would have listened.

[ozbob]

It is usually on Wednesdays, between 9.30am and 10am I recall.  I will check later ..  Might not happen this week because of the school holidays.

[ozbob]

It is usually on Wednesdays, between 9.30am and 10am I recall.  I will check later ..  Might not happen this week because of the school holidays.

Transport Minister is on 4BC now, ' Transport Talkback '   ALP did not come up with anyone, Ms Trad on holidays ...

[dancingmongoose]

Hello hello, what a good idea. Although, our fares are so high you'd need to donate like 100 of the things.

https://facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152590771312518&id=7557552517&set=a.10150142234567518.335336.7557552517&source=48