2014 fares

[ozbob]

^ The spiral is in an uncontrolled spin downwards at present ...  time it was stopped!

[ozbob]

[BrizCommuter]

A decent fare system can be set up now.  Getting pax back onboard and increasing the fare box is the aim. 

In the medium term there needs to be proper community consultation re fares as part of the next generation ticketing project for 2016.  Never has been.  What do the public actually want?  Periodicals, capping, simple low cost fares for all, not just rorters?   

No brainer stuff really.  If our politicians cannot drive this they should stand aside and let others who will in.

The sad things is that don't think that either side of politics can drive this. They are both as clueless as each other.

[ozbob]

^ we are working on it ...

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

25th August 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda

Greetings,

There is a fare crisis with public transport in south-east Queensland.
Why hasn't the Government made available detailed passenger loadings for all bus routes, train lines and stations, and ferries?

Is the Government and the bureaucracy attempting to hide their failures?

Where is bus on-time-performance?  Why has TransLink recently commenced tweeting the very regular Brisbane Transport bus lates, no shows and failures?

Is it an attempt to shore up the LNP's move to competitive tendering for Brisbane Transport?

Seems so to me.

The ALP completely botched the fare system for SEQ.  The LNP have just carried it on in fine failing style, despite Premier Newman's committment to sort it in the January 2013 six month action plan.
No wonder the public is losing confidence in the political system for Queensland.

The political reality is that the majority of seats are in the SEQ.  Continued fare system and network mediocrity will be costly for political parties.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 23rd August 2014

SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda

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 June 2014 has again confirmed that affordability has worsened for ferry and train.  Patronage is barely keeping pace with population growth during peak times and is falling outside peak as people are forced off public transport due to botched and high cost fares.

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 was again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs (3, 5) for June 2014. 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."

"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!  All political parties need to address the mess that is the fare system in SEQ with sound policy around fare reform."

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/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/public-transport-performance-data

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

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

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

Affordability June 2014



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]

Letter to the editor Queensland Times 25th August 2014 page 21

Time to act on fares

[ozbob]

Abysmal affordability continues along ..

July snapshot data released:

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

Page 14

[ozbob]

Media release 2nd September 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 July 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for July 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail!"

"It is a great disappointment  to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade survey is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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


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-july-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability July 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen if the masses vote for fare cuts.

Some examples:

Assume applies to paper as well.

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

3rd September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Fascinating to observe photographs of LNP members selling the fare cuts or service improvements survey outside SEQ. ( http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say )

Do these members really understand the cost of fares on the qconnect/TransLinkQLD (Cairns) network?

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

Around half or less the cost of fares in SEQ.  Many of the regional jurisdictions also have daily/weekly periodical tickets as well.

It really does highlight what a stunt this cynical survey actually is in my opinion.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 2nd September 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 July 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for July 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail!"

"It is a great disappointment  to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade survey is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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


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-july-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability July 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen if the masses vote for fare cuts.

Some examples:

Assume applies to paper as well.

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

7 September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

I spent a few days in Sydney last week (see > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10819.0 ).  The Opal smart card (equivalent of our go card here in SEQ) is an advanced state of roll out.

The opal card worked very well, but what does get visitors from SEQ's attention is the smart fare structure.

Just a few highlights below. Note the opal card has free travel after 8 paid journeys in a week.  However, the daily cap (adult $15) and weekly fare cap (adult $60) on the Opal will dampen the rorting which is now so widespread on the go card, and which also contributes to the high base fares in SEQ.  It also means the casual users are encouraged onto public transport as well as high use users.

A token survey offering a 5% fare 'cut' to  long suffering public transport users in SEQ is not going to do much at all.  What will is proper network reform and fare reform.  Looking at the Opal fare structure would be smart.

SEQ has one of worlds worst fare structures, TransLink's KPIs confirm that.  Fact - it is anti-public transport.  It must be sorted.

https://www.opal.com.au/en/fares-and-benefits/

Opal benefits:

Weekly Travel Reward

Take 8 paid journeys from Monday-Sunday with an Opal card and enjoy free travel for the rest of the week, excluding the airport station access fee

Sunday $2.50 Travel Cap

Travel all day on Sunday with Opal for no more than $2.50. Travel as much as you want as an Opal customer and pay no more than $2.50 from 4:00am Sunday morning until 3:59am on Monday morning, excluding the airport station access fee

Off-peak train fares

Save with an off-peak discount of 30% on full priced Opal fares when travelling on weekends, public holidays and before or after weekday peak times as below:

Sydney Trains network area: 7-9 am and 4-6.30 pm weekdays
NSW TrainLink Intercity services area: 6-8 am and 4-6.30 pm weekdays

Where tap on occurs at a station shared by Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink Intercity services, the peak times are as for Sydney Trains.
N.B. Off-peak fares only apply to travel by train.

Daily Travel Cap

With an Opal card you can enjoy travel all day for no more than $15 per day for Adults and $7.50 for Child/Youth from Monday to Saturday, excluding the airport station access fee

Weekly travel cap on Airport Station Access Fee

The Airport station access fee is capped at $21 per week for Adults and $19 for Child/Youth so you can save with Opal.

Travel anywhere during the week for no more than $60

Using your Opal card, you'll never pay more than $60 a week when travelling on all modes of Opal enabled transport from Monday to Sunday excluding the airport station access fee

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 2nd September 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 July 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for July 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail!"

"It is a great disappointment  to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade survey is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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


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-july-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability July 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen if the masses vote for fare cuts.

Some examples:

Assume applies to paper as well.

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale 
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Report on Fairfax radio news, BT buses have carried 1 million less pax 2013/2014 compared to previous year.

No real surprise.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane commuters abandon buses, choose cars instead

Commuters abandoned Brisbane's bus network en masse last financial year, with the network carrying nearly one million fewer passengers than the previous year.

Brisbane City Council's 2013-14 annual report, tabled at Tuesday's council meeting, reveals the city's bus fleet carried 2685 less passengers on average per day in 2013-14 than it did in 2012-13.

The figures were revealed on the same day Deputy Mayor Adrian Schrinner announced traffic on the city's road network rose by 3.3 per cent last year, or by 1000 vehicles per day.

But City Hall's public transport chief Peter Matic rebuffed suggestions the drop in patronage was the result of cuts to the bus network last year.

Cr Matic said the fault lay squarely with the former state Labor administration.

He said Brisbane's public transport usage "continued to feel the pain of the legacy of the former Labor Government's fare hikes".

Fares rose by up to 15 per cent annually under the Bligh government.

"We expect these numbers will turn around as a result of the [LNP] state government's capped increase of 2.5 per cent in fares each year," Cr Matic said.

"It is apparent from the state government's community consultation to date that the community is calling for cheaper public transport fares, which is a concern that is reflected by the community with council."

Council opposition leader Milton Dick said the figures showed people in Brisbane were turning their backs on public transport.

"The Brisbane bus review and changes to bus routes and timetabling has made it harder for commuters to catch public transport because there are fewer and less frequent services available throughout the city," he said.

The annual report also shows there were 220,000 less bus trips than the previous year, or a 7.1 per cent drop in services, following the council's public transport "optimisation review", the recommendations of which were implemented in the latter half of 2013.

"The lack of a frequent, reliable and affordable bus service is really starting to bite and it's forcing more people back into their cars," Cr Dick said.

However, the report is not damning of Brisbane's entire public transport network.

Ferry services carried an extra 300,000 passengers in the 2013-14 financial year, which Cr Matic said was largely fuelled by the success of the free CityHopper.

Approximately 6.2 million passengers caught the CityCat, CityFerry or the CityHopper last year, up from 5.9 million the previous year.

"Last financial year, 1.91 million passengers took advantage of council's free CityHopper service offering convenient cross-river transport, which has seen an increase in the number of passengers on council's ferry services," he said.

Cr Matic said it the growth came despite a year in which CityCat services from Brisbane's northside were slightly reduced due to a "go-slow zone" around the new Riverwalk construction site.

"Council launched a new ferry timetable this week, taking into account the removal of the go-slow requirements that were part of the Riverwalk re-construction project," he said.

"The new timetable will allow even more passengers to take advantage of additional CityCat and Ferry services."

"More than ever before we are seeing Brisbane residents take advantage of other public transport opportunities such as the CityHopper and CityCycle."

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

12th September 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ..

Greetings,

How much more evidence is needed for the proper fare and network reform?

Public transport in SEQ is a disaster.  Simple fare cuts will NOT fix the problems.  It is like putting a band-aid on a ruptured femoral artery.

Rail patronage has been belted. Now BCC buses - remove the now overloaded 'free' CityHopper services and it is getting diabolical. Go card rorting rife!

Fare evasion at crisis point.

A Government that actually cares for the community would act and act decisively.  The so called fare survey - cuts or services, is an insult to all.

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane commuters abandon buses, choose cars instead

Weak political leadership is very costly.

Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> UPDATE: RACQ says bus tickets are too expensive

[ozbob]

Dr Matthew Burke Griffith Uni was interviewed on 4BC Drive this afternoon.

Highlighted the unaffordability of fares a problem, mentioned the lack of cooperation between bus and rail and general inefficiency in network design.

Stressed that ' political courage ' is needed to fix.  Spot on.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Cost of bus fares a 'challenge'

[BrizCommuter]

Council opposition leader Milton Dick said the figures showed people in Brisbane were turning their backs on public transport.

"The Brisbane bus review and changes to bus routes and timetabling has made it harder for commuters to catch public transport because there are fewer and less frequent services available throughout the city," he said.

Erm, wasn't Milton Dick a major critic of the canned TransLink bus network redesign? What a hypocrite!

[techblitz]

Council opposition leader Milton Dick said the figures showed people in Brisbane were turning their backs on public transport.

"The Brisbane bus review and changes to bus routes and timetabling has made it harder for commuters to catch public transport because there are fewer and less frequent services available throughout the city," he said.

Erm, wasn't Milton Dick a major critic of the canned TransLink bus network redesign? What a hypocrite!

He is embarrasing himself further each passing day....i think given the situation...he is better off keeping quiet...

[newbris]

Council opposition leader Milton Dick said the figures showed people in Brisbane were turning their backs on public transport.

"The Brisbane bus review and changes to bus routes and timetabling has made it harder for commuters to catch public transport because there are fewer and less frequent services available throughout the city," he said.

Erm, wasn't Milton Dick a major critic of the canned TransLink bus network redesign? What a hypocrite!

He framed the translink review as being simply about cuts as if it was exactly the same as the BCC review cuts he mentions here.

He either doesn't understand the translink review was a proper review or does understand and was just playing politics. Anyone know which it is ?

[James]

He framed the translink review as being simply about cuts as if it was exactly the same as the BCC review cuts he mentions here.

He either doesn't understand the translink review was a proper review or does understand and was just playing politics. Anyone know which it is ?

I think it is a mix of both polyticks and stupidity on to what is dragging the entire TransLink network down. Unfortunately, most people in Brisbane fail to understand the necessities and design of a proper transport network.

[#Metro]

I think it is a mix of both polyticks and stupidity on to what is dragging the entire TransLink network down. Unfortunately, most people in Brisbane fail to understand the necessities and design of a proper transport network.

Politicians are actually quite smart and astute (except for the odd ones sometimes, the Clive Palmers etc) and often have degrees. No, they know EXACTLY what they are doing. When you're all wondering why 'they don't get public transport', they are thinking 'Why doesn't this person get politics?'.

For example, look at Scott Emerson's bio http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/members/current/list/bio?member=Emerson+Scott, he has a degree in Economics. On the other hand, he implemented the 9-then-waste fare rorting scheme. Go figure.

It's politics of the Lowest Common Denominator. Even if it is completely mad, idea but sounds good, it will fly!! Cleveland solution anyone? Milton Dick, Matic et al, they all would have armies of party office staff that regularly do polls, research on issues etc, they're not dumb...

[ozbob]

[ozbob]

The fundamental problem with  Oz ( & Qld ) polyticks is that it is not truly representative.

For example, last state election LNP just on 50% of vote end up with 85% of seats.

This just leads to an ' elite political class ' distant and uncaring for the masses.  The masses feel disconnected and frustrated.

So the political process is simply summed up as:



Fare cuts or  ?

[ozbob]

Ha!  Further tinkering on the way?  Increase in off peak discount?

Couriermail --> Queensland Competition Authority idea to introduce peak pricing for water a 'crazy idea' says Campbell Newman

CAMPBELL Newman has slapped down plans to charge more for water when it's in demand while his Government considers implementing similar peak pricing schemes for roads and public transport.

The Queensland Premier yesterday lampooned a Queensland Competition Authority proposal to charge more for water in summer or certain times of the day as a "crazy idea".

"We will not allow councils to implement such a scheme," Mr Newman said. "As far as I'm concerned it's dead."

However, the Government's new InfrastructureQ directions statement, released last week by Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney, details how peak pricing would be considered for roads, public transport, water and electricity ...

More > http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-competition-authority-idea-to-introduce-peak-pricing-for-water-a-crazy-idea-says-campbell-newman/story-fnihsrf2-1227060726567

[#Metro]

Ha!  Further tinkering on the way?  Increase in off peak discount?

Rumor Mill has it that 'None then free' will be instituted to coax people back on to buses. It works like this - if you don't catch PT for one week, you get the next week free. These changes are due to be implemented on the same day as the new BCC Maroon CityCat. 

[ozbob]

Public transport performance data August 2014

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

Affordability remains at lowest levels ever ..

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

25th September 2014

TransLink Affordability KPI - worst levels ever

Greetings,

Public transport performance data August 2014 has been quietly placed on the TransLink web site.

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

As expected, affordability (page 14) continues to track along at lowest levels ever.  The standout KPI failure. Seriously, a 5% fare cut is not going do much.  What will is proper network and fare reform.

Affordability August 2014



Best wishes
Robert

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

[ozbob]

Media release 26th September 2014

SEQ: Fare unaffordability 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 August 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for August 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail! Bus and ferry 'affordability' heading for the basement of despair once again!"

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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

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-Aug-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability KPI August 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen.

Some examples:

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Passenger trips going backwards.  Not keeping pace with service increases or population.

Number of trips each week

Total number of trips made (using all TransLink ticketing products), broken down by week for the SEQ public transport network—July 2012 to May 2014 https://data.qld.gov.au/dataset/public-transport-patronage-and-go-card-usage/resource/8bd8e8f4-1a4d-44e3-a21b-6321f8f73c86



Negative slope (Linear regression).  What a sad situation ..

y=-151.8x+ 1E+07

[ozbob]

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

28th September 2014

Failure on SEQ public transport - data confirms

Greetings,

To further highlight how anti-public transport the failed fare structure is.

Here is a graph of weekly trips (all ticketing products) from July 2012 July 2014.
Raw data is available > https://data.qld.gov.au/dataset/public-transport-patronage-and-go-card-usage/resource/8bd8e8f4-1a4d-44e3-a21b-6321f8f73c86



As can be noted patronage has gone backwards (negative slope of linear trend line).  Not keeping pace with service increases or population gains!

It is little wonder that road congestion, and bus delays are simply out of control on the road network in SEQ.  Where is bus on time performance?  Hidden from the public?

What is clearly needed is proper fare system and network reform.  Band aid fare cuts will not address the real problems.  It is fantasy to think it will.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 26th September 2014

SEQ: Fare unaffordability 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 August 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for August 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail! Bus and ferry 'affordability' heading for the basement of despair once again!"

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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

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-Aug-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability KPI August 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen.

Some examples:

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[techblitz]

Public transport performance data August 2014

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

Affordability remains at lowest levels ever ..

bus is now regularly heading ferry for affordability..were on par at the start of the year.....once again.....the bus ratings should be looked at......questions should be asked as to why certain bus passengers are not as affected by the fares as they are with the other modes of transport....definitely something to do with demographics.....very intriguing...

train just continues to slide ...may even hit 40 by years end..

[pandmaster]

The fundamental problem with  Oz ( & Qld ) polyticks is that it is not truly representative.

For example, last state election LNP just on 50% of vote end up with 85% of seats.

This just leads to an ' elite political class ' distant and uncaring for the masses.  The masses feel disconnected and frustrated.

So the political process is simply summed up as:



Fare cuts or  ?

New Zealand has a much more representative system (http://www.elections.org.nz/voting-system/mmp-voting-system). It is a shame that the two major parties here would both suffer under MMP so it or another proportional system is unlikely to be introduced.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

12th October 2014

Re: Fare system for SEQ in disarray

Greetings,

In today's  joint media statement by the Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade, and the Minister for energy and Water Supply concerning electricity price relief,  it is claimed that they are resetting the starting price of Queensland's electricity network costs rather than " .. quick sugar hits from cash splashes or rebates ". ( http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2014/10/12/queenslanders-to-get-electricity-price-relief )

A simple 5% fare cut then is nothing but a sugar hit, it does nothing to fix the fundamental issues with the failed fare structure in south-east Queensland for public transport.

The obvious duplicity in failed policy imperatives is stark.

The 5% fare cut is a sugar fix.  Quickly burnt and just adds to the mess.  Proper fare and public transport network reform is needed, not cynical vote buying.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

6th October 2014

Re: Fare system for SEQ in disarray

Greetings,

Consider Perth.  Affordable, straightforward fares.

http://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/tickets-fares/fares

Smart rider (equivalent) to go card, has fares that are either 15% or 25% cheaper than for the cash paper tickets.

Fares are less than half the cost of those in SEQ.

25% discount is for those smartriders on auto-topup.

Perth also has some special fares.

For example Dayrider - unlimited daily travel, after morning peak $12.10

Familyrider - two adults and up to 5 concessions, off peak weekends and public holidays $12.10

I think you would agree, the fare system for SEQ by comparison is an utter disgrace.

Don't forget that in every other jurisdiction outside Queensland, unemployed are afforded concession fares.  Queensland stands alone in punishing the unemployed.

The high cost fares in SEQ makes it very difficult for the unemployed to access public transport.
Most have to restrict travel, this in turn restricts opportunity to find employment. Many in the end just take their chances and fare evade.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

5th October 2014

Re: Fare system for SEQ in disarray

Greetings,

Melbourne's myki has this approach.  Periodical options (myki pass) or pay as you go (myki money).
http://ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/metropolitan-myki-fares/

Myki pass provides periodical options - 7 day ticketing option, and up to 365 days.

Myki money simple zone fares, with daily caps. Also simple flat fares on weekends.

Both myki money and myki pass can exist concurrently on a myki card.  Great fare options!

Compared to the go card in SEQ sensible and affordable options, but importantly preserves the fare box as rorting is not an option.

Sydney's opal has another approach.
https://www.opal.com.au/en/fares-and-benefits/

Daily cap ($15 for adult).  Weekly cap ($60 for adult).  Sunday flat fares of $2.50.

Surprisingly perhaps they also have a free travel after 8 paid journeys in a week.   However because of the daily / weekly caps the pressure to rort the system will not be any where as intense as what we have on the go card system.

As can be noted other jurisdictions do fare systems a lot better than SEQ.

It is time to fix the fare fail in SEQ.  It is grossly inequitable, anti-public transport, and is costing a lot in lost fare revenue dollars.
This contributes to the high base fares and poor service frequency and connections on most of the network.

Enjoy the long weekend.  Travel often, travel early!

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

4th October 2014

Fare system for SEQ in disarray

Greetings,

We have pointed out before that the uncapped free after 9 paid journeys on the go card, as modified by the LNP after the previous ALP government introduced it as free after 10 journeys in a week is nothing but a massive rort, and is costing the fare box a lot of money (1).  It is making it difficult to do proper fare reform.  It keeps base fare very expensive and dissuades discretionary use of public transport in SEQ.

The latest rort goes like this. Usually passengers in 'suits' in the city, touch on on the go card machine on the bus drivers side, then immediately touch off on the machine on the opposite side.  This then charges a fare.  They hop off the bus without actually travelling. This allows those users to rapidly reach the 9 paid journey threshold and save big dollars on long distance fares later in the week.  Hardly equitable is it?

The reason why this is possible, is that a while back the go card system had to be modified to stop people cancelling touches down the back of the bus after boarding!

Don't you think it is time the Minister for Transport faced up to the facts.  The fare system for SEQ is in total disarray.  It needs to be fixed.  An immediate move would be to reintroduce 50% fares after say 8 paid journeys in a week.  This would stop the rorting in the main, and in any case even if the rorters continue they will still be paying fares.

In the longer term, proper community consultation is needed prior to the introduction of the next generation ticketing system in 2016.  A fair, balanced fare system is needed.  Daily and weekly caps will do that, and will stop the costly rorting which is now the hallmark of the go card system in SEQ.

Rorting sadly reinforces a 'fare evasion culture' as well, another serious problem in SEQ (2).

What a sad and sorry mess!

Best wishes
Robert

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

References:

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

2. SEQ: Fare evasion crisis on public transport in SEQ
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9539.msg142622#msg142622

[ozbob]

Letter to the editor Queensland Times published 14th October 2014

A simple fare cut is nothing but a 'sugar fix'

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

16th October 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis continues

Greetings,

Judging by yesterdays demonstration of ' group think ' in Queensland Parliament, there seems little hope of responsible fare and network reform for south-east Queensland.

It is a very sad situation to watch the ruination of our public transport system. Both the ALP and the LNP simply put their own political greed before the community, clearly.

None the less, I will continue to highlight why proper reform is needed, and attempt to save our public transport system from collapse.

Letter to the editor Queensland Times published 14th October 2014



Best wishes,

Robert

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

Media release 26th September 2014 re-released 16th October 2014

SEQ: Fare unaffordability 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 August 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for August 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail! Bus and ferry 'affordability' heading for the basement of despair once again!"

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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

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-Aug-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability KPI August 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen.

Some examples:

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

19th October 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis continues

Greetings,

Why has the current fare scheme for SEQ failed?

The current fare scheme has failed because while base fares have gone up dramatically over recent years, around 100% in real terms since 2010, the average income of Queensland has not. While the 9 then free scheme has done something towards maintaining patronage in overall trips, paid trips has fallen and this then has an opposite impact on the subsidy per trip, leaving a net decrease in the number of trips for which passengers contributed towards the cost of running the service. This is most likely because the 9 then free scheme was attractive for those who might already be commuting by PT most days of the week, it isn't attractive at all for those who might only be using the network on occasion because of the high base fare costs, which is where most growth in patronage would be coming from (because those who already use it 3-5 days a week have little capacity to use it more frequently).

Revised fare structure

A revised fare structure should address the fare box leakage as a result of the 9 and then free structure, provide a lower base fare cost and drive out of peak patronage. Other jurisdictions use daily and weekly caps to preserve the fare box (e.g. Opal card Sydney). Additionally the fact that not all Health Care Card holders in Queensland are given public transport concession fares needs to be addressed. Queensland is the only state in Australia that makes unemployed pay full fares. Some form of family/group ticketing should be introduced to encourage people back to public transport. The present two paid journey cap, then free for Seniors and some DVA pensioners needs a review. This scheme is inequitable to those Seniors/Pensioners who don't have access to high frequency public transport services and makes their initial journey costs very expensive.

With the new ticketing system on the agenda for 2016, it is time to correct the past blunders.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

16th October 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis continues

Greetings,

Judging by yesterdays demonstration of ' group think ' in Queensland Parliament, there seems little hope of responsible fare and network reform for south-east Queensland.

It is a very sad situation to watch the ruination of our public transport system. Both the ALP and the LNP simply put their own political greed before the community, clearly.

None the less, I will continue to highlight why proper reform is needed, and attempt to save our public transport system from collapse.

Letter to the editor Queensland Times published 14th October 2014



Best wishes,

Robert

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

Media release 26th September 2014 re-released 16th October 2014

SEQ: Fare unaffordability 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 August 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for August 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail! Bus and ferry 'affordability' heading for the basement of despair once again!"

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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

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-Aug-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability KPI August 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen.

Some examples:

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

. #farefailSEQ > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10048.msg147640#msg147640 ... ... #qldpol #auspol #nswpol #springst #sapol #wapol #taspol #farefailSEQ

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

21st October 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis continues

Greetings,

Looking forward to the September 2014 Public Transport performance data  http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/public-transport-performance-data

Will it be made available late this Friday?

It is worth remembering that Premier Newman indicated in the January 2013 Six Month Action Plan that the fare structure for SEQ would be sorted.

Hey, we are still waiting ...

Travelling free on the go card yet for this week?  Many 'cashed up suits' are ...  What a crazy fare system ...

Don't forget to touch off.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

19th October 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis continues

Greetings,

Why has the current fare scheme for SEQ failed?

The current fare scheme has failed because while base fares have gone up dramatically over recent years, around 100% in real terms since 2010, the average income of Queensland has not. While the 9 then free scheme has done something towards maintaining patronage in overall trips, paid trips has fallen and this then has an opposite impact on the subsidy per trip, leaving a net decrease in the number of trips for which passengers contributed towards the cost of running the service. This is most likely because the 9 then free scheme was attractive for those who might already be commuting by PT most days of the week, it isn't attractive at all for those who might only be using the network on occasion because of the high base fare costs, which is where most growth in patronage would be coming from (because those who already use it 3-5 days a week have little capacity to use it more frequently).

Revised fare structure

A revised fare structure should address the fare box leakage as a result of the 9 and then free structure, provide a lower base fare cost and drive out of peak patronage. Other jurisdictions use daily and weekly caps to preserve the fare box (e.g. Opal card Sydney). Additionally the fact that not all Health Care Card holders in Queensland are given public transport concession fares needs to be addressed. Queensland is the only state in Australia that makes unemployed pay full fares. Some form of family/group ticketing should be introduced to encourage people back to public transport. The present two paid journey cap, then free for Seniors and some DVA pensioners needs a review. This scheme is inequitable to those Seniors/Pensioners who don't have access to high frequency public transport services and makes their initial journey costs very expensive.

With the new ticketing system on the agenda for 2016, it is time to correct the past blunders.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

16th October 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare unaffordability crisis continues

Greetings,

Judging by yesterdays demonstration of ' group think ' in Queensland Parliament, there seems little hope of responsible fare and network reform for south-east Queensland.

It is a very sad situation to watch the ruination of our public transport system. Both the ALP and the LNP simply put their own political greed before the community, clearly.

None the less, I will continue to highlight why proper reform is needed, and attempt to save our public transport system from collapse.

Letter to the editor Queensland Times published 14th October 2014



Best wishes,

Robert

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

Media release 26th September 2014 re-released 16th October 2014

SEQ: Fare unaffordability 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 August 2014 has again confirmed that fare 'affordability' remains at crisis levels.

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 no surprise then that affordability is again the stand out failure for the TransLink Customer Satisfaction KPIs for August 2014 (3). Worst unaffordability ever recorded for rail! Bus and ferry 'affordability' heading for the basement of despair once again!"

"It is a great disappointment to our members, and to many informed public transport users that rather than take the big steps to sort out the failed fare system and the network once and for all, in the shadows of the election a charade poll is put to the public - suggesting that a windfall gain from the cancelled carbon tax can be used to fund cut in fares of 5%."

"Fares on qconnect and TransLinkQLD (Cairns) urban buses are around half to a third the cost of fares in SEQ.  Service improvements would be far more important for these jurisdictions, but they were simply done over by the numbers in SEQ on the poll."

"A new balanced fare system needs to be put in place immediately for SEQ, rather than just a notional cut.  A fare system that drives patronage around the clock, is affordable and fair to all demographics.  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, the TransLink Affordability KPI attests to that.  It is just a massive rort and a drain on the fare box! (4)"

"There are very big cost savings to be made to the economy by getting people back on public transport with a sound fare system and a truly connected network.  Fares in SEQ are amongst the worlds most expensive. A token fare cut is going to do very little without real reform (5).  Time to act decisively!"

Contact:

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

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-Aug-snapshot.pdf  page 14

Affordability KPI August 2014



4. 16 Jun 2014: SEQ: Flawed cost estimates for the nine and free go card rort?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10765.0

5. How much is 5%, well not much really .. also  the scheduled fare increase of 2.5% from January 2015 will not happen.

Some examples:

Zone 12 eg. Helensvale
Go peak $10.87  off 9.06
- 5%      $ 10.32  off $8.60

Paper $15.80
-5%   $15.01

Zone 15 eg. Robina Eudlo
Go peak $13.78  off  $11.03
-5%       $13.09  off  $10.48

Paper $20
-5%   $19

Zone 16 eg. Varsity Lakes, Palmwoods
Go peak $14.85  off  $11.88
-5%       $14.11  off  $11.29

Paper $21.60
-5%   $20.52

Zone 1
Go peak $3.53  off  $2.83
-5%       $3.35  off  $2.69

Paper $5.20
-5%   $4.94

Zone 2
Go peak $4.14  off  $3.32
-5%       $3.93  off  $3.15

Paper $6.10
-5%   $5.80

[BrizCommuter]

BrizCommuter special : Fare comparison post 5% fare cut
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2014/10/2014-fare-reduction-fares-still-too-high.html
You can guess the result!