Queensland Transport to return $30m in carbon tax savings as lower fares or incr

[dancingmongoose]

Let's make our own political party so we can fix the mess

[ozbob]

The thought has occurred before today.  It is particularly onerous with various requirements, and then no guarantees. 

Even in the very public transport centric places attempts have always failed.

Better to continue to be ' a-political ' and continue to press on ..

[ozbob]

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

Remember to round up the paper tickets to the nearest 10c . No 5c increments in paper tickets.

Thanks Otto, good point.  Makes it even more minuscule.

[ozbob]

7 News Brisbane is running an item on this 6pm Bulletin.

[ozbob]

7 News

[#Metro]

Let's make our own political party so we can fix the mess

'Full Service' parties have both economies of scale and scope. Also no upper house in QLD either, so the possibility of a senate only concern is also not possible.

That to one side, there is nothing preventing RBOT members from writing up a mock satirical tender document for the BCC Bus Network Tender or Queensland Rail and then actually submitting it, highlighting the problems and what we would do. 

I can think of some things:

1. Maroon CityCat
2. 161 and 314 BUZ
3. Gympie North Rocket Bus (run in parallel to train line)
4. 'One' then free fare ticketing, you know, for the 'occasional' user

etc.
RBOT Bus & Rail Transit Operations Ltd. 

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

9th September 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Channel 7 Brisbane & reporter Katrina Blowers have put together an excellent news item ' Fare Go - Cheaper fares trumps better transport '

Can be viewed here > https://au.news.yahoo.com/qld/video/watch/24929953/cheaper-fares-trumps-better-transport/

The survey is a stunt.  Public transport in SEQ is unaffordable, many regions are very poorly serviced and network integration is very poor.

TransLink's own Key Performance Indicators have long pointed to the fare unaffordability crisis in SEQ, and was even mentioned in the TransLink Transit Authority Annual report two years ago..  A survey looking for political brownie-points was not needed, and itself is just wasting money.

What is needed is action for proper fare and network reform, not a trumped survey that is insulting to the long suffering public transport commuters of SEQ.  Announcing the results of the survey halfway through has just invalidated it any case.

Little wonder the fall in electoral support for the Newman Government is breathtaking, they simply prefer to play the spin game rather than do the real work of essential reform.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 8th September 2014



SEQ: Minister Emerson confirms the obvious - fares are too expensive 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 today's revelation by the Transport Minister* that 75% of the TransLink Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey respondents have gone for fare cuts is no surprise, but highlights the fact that the survey has always been more about political stunts than sound policy reform (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a stunt. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it has finished has now consigned the survey to total irrelevance.  The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (2, 3, 4). Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network.  Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just buy votes for the next state election."

*
Twitter

Scott Emerson @scottemersonmp

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol http://t.co/de6Qlxd3Tm

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

3. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

4. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

4BC have scheduled an interview after 5pm news on this.

Drive with Rick Burnett  (standing in for Ben Davis).

[ozbob]

4BC have scheduled an interview after 5pm news on this.

Drive with Rick Burnett  (standing in for Ben Davis).

Thanks for the opportunity Rick and 4BC.  Elaborated on the fact the fare unaffordability is not a recent issue in SEQ and that there were better options for the $30M than waste some of it on a meaningless poll.

[ozbob]

Response rates to this poll are very mediocre as well.  Suits a political stunt ...

[ozbob]

http://translink.com.au/about-translink/reporting-and-publications/media-releases/details/2811

Monday 8 September 2014

Queenslanders have one week to decide how to spend $30 million of carbon tax savings with a choice of increased transport services or reduced fares.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said since the survey was announced last Sunday, more than 16,000 Queenslanders had already voted.

"This week is the last chance to have your say and help decide how the savings should be spent," Mr Emerson said.

"Whether you choose a five per cent reduction in fares or 1,000 extra transport services across the State, this survey delivers on our strong plan to lower the cost of living and revitalise frontline services.

"More than 82 per cent of Queenslanders that voted were from Brisbane suburbs.

"All passengers are encouraged to make their choice as the results of this survey will benefit the entire state, not just South East Queensland."

Across the State the interest varied including:

    Mackay (0.22 per cent)
    Cairns (0.19 per cent)
    Gold Coast (5.75 per cent)
    Ipswich (4.48 per cent)
    Rockhampton (0.29 per cent)
    Sunshine Coast (3.41 per cent)

The online survey will close at midnight Sunday 14 September, so log on to the website http://translink.com.au/ or phone 13 12 30.

Last updated: Monday 8 September 2014

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest North West News 10th September 2014 page 4

RESIDENTS ASKED TO CHOOSE: CHEAPER FARES OR MORE FREQUENT SERVICES

DESPITE paying over 30 per cent more in public transport fees since 2010, north Brisbane commuters are still desperate for better transport services to get where they need to go.

The State Government has given Queenslanders the choice: a five per cent cut to current public transport fares, or up to 1000 more services delivered each week.

It follows the decision to reinvest $30 million a year in savings from the scrapped carbon tax and put it towards public transport.

North-West News asked commuters at Mitchelton train station and Brookside bus depot how they would cast their vote. A number of bus commuters suggested extended hours and more regular services for buses that only came on the hour.

One public transport commuter, Michelle Somers, said some buses stopped as early as 7pm in Keperra.

"I sometimes get the bus there but it only runs every hour and I sometimes miss it by minutes," she said.

"Buses that run on the hour should be changed to every half-hour."

Suburbs that were flagged for improvement included Keperra, Arana Hills, Mitchelton and Stafford.

Train commuters were more inclined to choose cheaper fares, but most were unimpressed by a five per cent discount. In the last four years, public transport prices have increased 34 per cent. From 2010 to 2012, they increased by 15 per cent each year, then another 7.5 per cent in 2013 and 2014.

This meant a zone one go card fare jumped from $2.30 to $3.53 and a single paper ticket rose from $3.40 to $5.20.

Rail Back on Track spokesman Robert Dow said fixing transport was not as simple as picking one or the other.

"Rather than simple fare cuts, reorganise the network ... to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improve frequency in poorly serviced areas," Mr Dow said.

[ozbob]

Editorial North West News 10th September 2014 page page 9

Hard choice on public transport is up to us

Hard choice on public transport is up to us

THE State LNP Government has put the decision about the next change to public transport in your hands.

The scrapped carbon tax has provided about $30 million, which the government wants to reinvest in the state's often criticised public transport network. But how it will be spent is open to public vote.

The choice? A 5 per cent reduction in the cost of public transport or an increase in services of about 1000 a week.

Already, more than 16,000 Queenslanders have had their say. And you have until Sunday to cast your vote through translink.com.au.

The former Labor government started the painful annual tradition of raising the cost of transport by 15 per cent a year, something that was later lowered to a 7.5 per cent increase by the LNP.

Given commuters have been forced to get used to paying more than 30 per cent more in the space of four short years, some at Mitchelton train and bus stops were sceptical the difference a 5 per cent fare decrease would make to their hip pocket.

No-one would say no to a reduction, but when it might come at the price of better services, it's a restricted choice.

— Marnie Ludgate, news editor

[ozbob]

http://www.4bc.com.au/blogs/driveblog2014#.VA-azmPwOdk

4BC Drive

Southeast transport fares
Posted by: Gordon Campbell | Gordon Campbell 9 September, 2014 - 5:44 PM
Go Card

Interview --> http://www.4bc.com.au/displayPopUpPlayerAction.action?&url=http://media.mytalk.com.au/4bc/audio/drv_dow_090914.mp3
or --> http://media.mytalk.com.au/4bc/audio/drv_dow_090914.mp3

4BC Drive: If you'd like to have a chance to let the Transport Minister know how you think savings from the carbon tax could be spent on state transport to improve infrastructure – with two of the issues to be decided upon being 'fare increases' or an 'increase in services.

The State Government has been running a 'Public Transport Questionnaire' which will finally close next week.

Reportedly, 16,000 Queenslanders have already submitted their opinion on the topic.

Robert Dow from the public transport advocacy group Rail Back on Track wasn't exactly impressed with the state government's tactics on this subject, and he spoke to 4BC Drive about his feelings.

"We think that there's been enough evidence now for a number of years," said Dow, "to point to the fact that fares on the South East Queensland Translink public transport network are grossly unaffordable."

"Each month now Translink publish performance snapshot data, which one of the key point indicators that they publish is affordability."

According to these snapshots is that affordability has never been worse on South East Queensland transport than they are currently.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

11th September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Here is an interview on News Talk 4BC 1116, Rick Burnett and yours truly concerning the ' Cheaper fares or more services ' survey.
I outline why the  fare cut or services 'survey' is a stunt.

-->  http://www.4bc.com.au/blogs/2014-4bc-drive-audio-blog/southeast-transport-fares/20140909-3f5jz.html#.VBDASWOZgqM

Fares in SEQ are unaffordable.  Many regions within SEQ have poor  public transport service. It is not a matter of one or the other, it is both aspects that need fixing.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

9th September 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Channel 7 Brisbane & reporter Katrina Blowers have put together an excellent news item ' Fare Go - Cheaper fares trumps better transport '

Can be viewed here > https://au.news.yahoo.com/qld/video/watch/24929953/cheaper-fares-trumps-better-transport/

The survey is a stunt.  Public transport in SEQ is unaffordable, many regions are very poorly serviced and network integration is very poor.

TransLink's own Key Performance Indicators have long pointed to the fare unaffordability crisis in SEQ, and was even mentioned in the TransLink Transit Authority Annual report two years ago..  A survey looking for political brownie-points was not needed, and itself is just wasting money.

What is needed is action for proper fare and network reform, not a trumped survey that is insulting to the long suffering public transport commuters of SEQ.  Announcing the results of the survey halfway through has just invalidated it any case.

Little wonder the fall in electoral support for the Newman Government is breathtaking, they simply prefer to play the spin game rather than do the real work of essential reform.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 8th September 2014



SEQ: Minister Emerson confirms the obvious - fares are too expensive 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 today's revelation by the Transport Minister* that 75% of the TransLink Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey respondents have gone for fare cuts is no surprise, but highlights the fact that the survey has always been more about political stunts than sound policy reform (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a stunt. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it has finished has now consigned the survey to total irrelevance.  The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (2, 3, 4). Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network.  Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just buy votes for the next state election."

*
Twitter

Scott Emerson @scottemersonmp

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol http://t.co/de6Qlxd3Tm

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

3. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

4. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

Contact:

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

[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

Sent to all outlets:

11th September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Here is an interview on News Talk 4BC 1116, Rick Burnett and yours truly concerning the ' Cheaper fares or more services ' survey.
I outline why the  fare cut or services 'survey' is a stunt.

-->  http://www.4bc.com.au/blogs/2014-4bc-drive-audio-blog/southeast-transport-fares/20140909-3f5jz.html#.VBDASWOZgqM

Fares in SEQ are unaffordable.  Many regions within SEQ have poor  public transport service. It is not a matter of one or the other, it is both aspects that need fixing.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Sent to all outlets:

9th September 2014

SEQ: Fare affordability crisis continues ...

Greetings,

Channel 7 Brisbane & reporter Katrina Blowers have put together an excellent news item ' Fare Go - Cheaper fares trumps better transport '

Can be viewed here > https://au.news.yahoo.com/qld/video/watch/24929953/cheaper-fares-trumps-better-transport/

The survey is a stunt.  Public transport in SEQ is unaffordable, many regions are very poorly serviced and network integration is very poor.

TransLink's own Key Performance Indicators have long pointed to the fare unaffordability crisis in SEQ, and was even mentioned in the TransLink Transit Authority Annual report two years ago..  A survey looking for political brownie-points was not needed, and itself is just wasting money.

What is needed is action for proper fare and network reform, not a trumped survey that is insulting to the long suffering public transport commuters of SEQ.  Announcing the results of the survey halfway through has just invalidated it any case.

Little wonder the fall in electoral support for the Newman Government is breathtaking, they simply prefer to play the spin game rather than do the real work of essential reform.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 8th September 2014



SEQ: Minister Emerson confirms the obvious - fares are too expensive 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 today's revelation by the Transport Minister* that 75% of the TransLink Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey respondents have gone for fare cuts is no surprise, but highlights the fact that the survey has always been more about political stunts than sound policy reform (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a stunt. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it has finished has now consigned the survey to total irrelevance.  The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (2, 3, 4). Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network.  Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just buy votes for the next state election."

*
Twitter

Scott Emerson @scottemersonmp

With one week to go, of 16,000 who've voted so far, 75% want 5% cut to fares over increased services #qldpol http://t.co/de6Qlxd3Tm

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

3. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

4. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

Contact:

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

[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]

4BC breakfast have an OB at Central rail today.

Minister Emerson interviewed, amongst other things said around 20,000 responses to survey, and the difference between cuts and services has closed a bit ( no surprise after ' leaking ' the response pattern last Monday,  appalling ).

Terrible 'survey' to be basing policy on ..  but hey that is the con .. no leadership .. 



The fare farce! (Painting: Farce actors dancing .. )

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow 2m

Policy by bizarre poll > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10930.msg146215#msg146215 ... #qldpol http://twitpic.com/ebk2vi

[ozbob]

4KQ News have followed up.  Thanks for the interest ..   

[ozbob]

Twitter

Scott Emerson ‏@scottemersonmp

PT survey now over 20k with gap closing between fares vs services. Next wk we'll start compiling feedback to MPs for a final result #qldpol

[ozbob]

^

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

. @scottemersonmp < 5% of PT users, invalid as now biased ... > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10930.msg146231#msg146231 ... proper fare & network reform needed .. #qldpol

[ozbob]

Media release 13th September 2014

SEQ: It's time for a chat

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 it is time the community was properly consulted on the need for proper fare and public transport network reform in Brisbane and SEQ generally (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Public transport must be fast, direct and frequent. It must also be affordable and accessible.

"Simple fare cuts will not fix the systemic issues with our public transport network in SEQ.

"The carbon tax 'windfall' is being squandered on a short term populist con trick (1).  A 5% ' fare cut ' does very little indeed to address the real fare unaffordability crisis on the SEQ TransLink network.

"It does nothing to address the lack of high frequency services for large areas of Brisbane.

"It does nothing to address the chronic problem of 'missed connections' and long waits as a consequence.

"It does nothing to address the fare box leakage due to the design of the flawed fare structure.

"It does nothing to address the limited hours of operation of many services.

"Real reform is needed - fares and network. This needs to be communicated to the public.  Political courage is called for.

"The failure to address the fare unaffordability crisis and associated network issues is now impacting as worsening congestion on the roads in SEQ as people abandon public transport due to the failed high cost fare structure and poor network design.

"There is now a crisis with public transport in SEQ."

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. Minister Emerson confirms the obvious - fares are too expensive
    http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10947.0

3. Fare relief or increased services? We can have both!
    http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10932.0

Contact:

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

[#Metro]

I think the best that can be hoped for is proportional allocation. So if 60% vote for A and the other 40% for be, the funds would be split 60:40.

We are dealing with politicians that need to be re-elected. They need something to crow about otherwise the general populace would not care.

[ozbob]

Letter to the editor Queensland Times published 13th September 2014 page 51

Public transport system a 'disaster'

[techblitz]

What better place to start the community consultation that @ inala/forest lake/richlands/springfield
Multiple reasons why...

1. This was the hotspot where commuters kicked up the biggest stink for TL bus review and theres no reason to see it wont happen again.Its a political hotpsot with 2 powerbrokers in anna palazcuik and milton dick.Forest lake and inala currently have a highly wasteful cbd direct offpeak buz service in the 100 which should never have been buzed on the first place..but now the users of that service are in "protect" mode.Just telling local councellors,commuters to "grow a set" wont achieve much....consult,educate the local community is the far better option...

2. The area is demographically interesting:
forest lake/springfield lakes & inala are strikingly different suburbs in the "no vehicle ownership" category....inala around 20%( essentially 3 times the state/national average) and FL/SL around 3% which is half the average.....so we have a "heavily reliant" public transport suburb in the mix...

5. Due to that higher than average car ownership....Springfield lakes/forest lake residents have an intermittent preference to park @ train stations....due to street layout/ access to bus stops/ and poor frequency,span/ safari route access to train stations(522).....so the question needs to be put to them...what would it take for you to start using the bus?

what better place to start consulting on everything from fares,services,commute times,faith in rail system,street layouts,bus stop access than this region...a lot can be learned...

[ozbob]

Thanks TB, good suggestions.

Outside Brisbane, the bus network changes have largely gone ahead, still some issues but it is certainly more efficient.  More would have been done for all the regions but Brisbane is starving others of service funds (fact).

The real stumbling block remains Brisbane.  Clearly there has been a shift of sorts at town hall.

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> State Government survey showing Queenslanders prefer cheaper public transport over increased services

[ozbob]

Media release 15th September 2014



SEQ: Fares are too expensive in SEQ - what a NON surprise!

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 Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey has simply confirmed what has been known for years (1, 2, 3).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a political stunt in the shadows of the looming Queensland State election. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it had finished consigned the survey to total irrelevance. Sample size is small relative to the number of public transport users, and responses from SEQ have overwhelmed feedback from regions outside SEQ."

"The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts, for example extending concession fares to the unemployed,  and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (4, 5, 6). This was well known prior to this rather pointless 'cuts or services' political stunt. Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network (7).

"Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just an attempt to cynically and contemptibly buy votes for the next state election."

Contact:

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

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. ' Fare Go - Cheaper fares trumps better transport ' -->  https://au.news.yahoo.com/qld/video/watch/24929953/cheaper-fares-trumps-better-transport/

3.  4BC Drive Southeast transport fares --> http://media.mytalk.com.au/4bc/audio/drv_dow_090914.mp3

4. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

5. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

6. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

7. 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.

Note paper fare increases have been rounded up to the nearest 10 cents by TransLink, will this continue?
Paper fares below are non-rounded. This will make the mediocre decreases less.

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]

I note the ' survey ' stuff has been promptly removed from the TransLink main page http://translink.com.au/

Probably out of sheer relief to hastily remove such an embarrassment for them ...

[ozbob]

Newstalk 4BC 1116 have scheduled an interview for later this morning on the survey etc.   

[ozbob]

Newstalk 4BC 1116 have scheduled an interview for later this morning on the survey etc.   

Newstalk 4BC 1116 interview and preamble --> http://backontrack.org/docs/4bc/4bc15sep14.mp3

[ozbob]

http://www.4bc.com.au/blogs/2014-4bc-breakfast-audio-blog/queenslanders-choose-cheaper-fares/20140915-3fpdc.html

Queenslanders choose cheaper fares
Posted by: Lauren Gillin | 15 September, 2014 - 7:20 AM
Public transport fare rises of 15 per cent a year have put patronage at a four-year low

4BC Breakfast: Last month the government asked public transport users how they would prefer the $30 million saved from the abolition of the carbon tax to be spent, on lower fares or more services.

The results of the survey are in and commuters have overwhelmingly voted for cheaper fares.

Robert Dow, Spokesperson for Rail Back on Track says the results are not surprising.

He told Mark Braybrook and Victoria Carthew , Translink themselves flagged affordability as an issues in 2012.

However Mr Dow says fare cuts will not solve all the issues plaguing Queensland's and in particular Brisbane's public transport system. 

"We need proper fare reform and proper network reform".

Mr Dow says 'feeder' buses need to run to and from stations so people don't have to worry about finding a car park before they catch the train.

Interview --> http://media.mytalk.com.au/4bc/audio/break_dow_150914.mp3

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

19th September 2014

SEQ: Fares are too expensive in SEQ - what a NON surprise

Greetings,

There is little doubt that the free after 9 journeys is not really working as intended.  It is too easily rorted eg. unnecessary lunch time one stoppers, bus ferry or rail early in the week to offset higher commutes later in the week.  Personally I find it very distressing observing the battlers struggling to pay fares to get to the local shopping centre on a bus, knowing that cashed up 'suits' can rort so easily.  Mums with children cannot rort in the same way, as for many others.

Introduced on the go card as free after 10 paid journeys in the week by the ALP as a knee-jerk reaction to worsening fare affordability in 2012, was easily and lazily trumped by LNP as free after 9 paid journeys. Fare unaffordability has simply worsened since, patronage fallen or at best stagnation.

The go card could be fixed and put on a sensible fare path by introducing for example a dynamic cap. Simple flat daily caps as for Melbourne, Sydney and say London will not work on SEQ because of the high zone differences, from zones 1 to 23. We are dealing with smart cards.  A daily cap of say 2 times the highest cost paid journey in a 24 hour period would stop the rorting, but still provide plenty of free trips during the day as desired but importantly return a fare box.  A weekly cap could simply be 4 times highest daily cap fares.  This would allow reduction in base fares and then means PT is more affordable for all, from the first journey in a week till the 55th for example.  It would also improve the fare box, directly in preserved fare revenue but encourage folk back on board.

Poll and discussion thread for interest --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10957.0

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 15th September 2014



SEQ: Fares are too expensive in SEQ - what a NON surprise!

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 Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey has simply confirmed what has been known for years (1, 2, 3).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a political stunt in the shadows of the looming Queensland State election. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it had finished consigned the survey to total irrelevance. Sample size is small relative to the number of public transport users, and responses from SEQ have overwhelmed feedback from regions outside SEQ."

"The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts, for example extending concession fares to the unemployed,  and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (4, 5, 6). This was well known prior to this rather pointless 'cuts or services' political stunt. Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network (7).

"Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just an attempt to cynically and contemptibly buy votes for the next state election."

Contact:

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

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. ' Fare Go - Cheaper fares trumps better transport ' -->  https://au.news.yahoo.com/qld/video/watch/24929953/cheaper-fares-trumps-better-transport/

3.  4BC Drive Southeast transport fares --> http://media.mytalk.com.au/4bc/audio/drv_dow_090914.mp3

4. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

5. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

6. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

7. 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.

Note paper fare increases have been rounded up to the nearest 10 cents by TransLink, will this continue?
Paper fares below are non-rounded. This will make the mediocre decreases less.

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]

Couriermail --> Fare cut beats more services as Queenslanders choose carbon tax refund

What a non surprise ...   

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

21st September 2014

Re: SEQ: Fares are too expensive in SEQ - what a NON surprise

Greetings,

What a sham this so called survey was.   Money wasted on establishing the obvious.

I feel sorry for TransLink staff forced to participate in a political stunt!

Couriermail --> Fare cut beats more services as Queenslanders choose carbon tax refund

What is needed is proper network and fare reform.  Moving the 'deck chairs' around does very little for the longer term.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 15th September 2014



SEQ: Fares are too expensive in SEQ - what a NON surprise!

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 Fare Cut or Service Improvements Survey has simply confirmed what has been known for years (1, 2, 3).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The survey has been viewed by many as a political stunt in the shadows of the looming Queensland State election. Revealing the response rates of the survey before it had finished consigned the survey to total irrelevance. Sample size is small relative to the number of public transport users, and responses from SEQ have overwhelmed feedback from regions outside SEQ."

"The money wasted on this stunt should have been put towards more fare cuts, for example extending concession fares to the unemployed,  and setting up proper fare reform and the necessary network reform."

"The failure of the bus review in 2013 has restricted the opportunity for fare affordability improvements on the SEQ TransLink network."

"Fare unaffordability has never been worse than now in SEQ (4, 5, 6). This was well known prior to this rather pointless 'cuts or services' political stunt. Rather than simple fare-cuts, reorganise the network along the lines proposed in 2013 to drive the massive savings in operating costs, which together with the carbon tax savings can then be used for a much better balanced and affordable fare system for all demographics, with improved connectivity and improved frequency in poorly served areas of SEQ."

"Simple fare cuts alone will not fix the fundamental issues with the failing network (7).

"Real leadership is needed to fix it for the long term, not just an attempt to cynically and contemptibly buy votes for the next state election."

Contact:

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

References:

1. http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say

2. ' Fare Go - Cheaper fares trumps better transport ' -->  https://au.news.yahoo.com/qld/video/watch/24929953/cheaper-fares-trumps-better-transport/

3.  4BC Drive Southeast transport fares --> http://media.mytalk.com.au/4bc/audio/drv_dow_090914.mp3

4. 23 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare failure on the political agenda
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10917.0

5. 1 Aug 2014: SEQ: Fare affordability crisis needs action today
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10881.0

6. 23 Jul 2014: SEQ: Cost explosion to engulf Queensland Government at polls?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10836.0

7. 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.

Note paper fare increases have been rounded up to the nearest 10 cents by TransLink, will this continue?
Paper fares below are non-rounded. This will make the mediocre decreases less.

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]

... The Government's much-vaunted free fares after nine trips cost millions of dollars but has not attracted additional patronage ...

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/fare-cut-beats-more-services-as-queenslanders-choose-carbon-tax-refund/story-fnihsrf2-1227065103434

Even the CM can see the failure ...  has lead to failing fare box and rorting though ...

[ozbob]

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow

Polyticks or policy? > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=10930.msg146652#msg146652 ... #qldpol #farefailSEQ http://twitpic.com/ebwcxm

[ozbob]

4KQ News have followed up   

[Arnz]

http://translink.com.au/news-and-updates/have-your-say-results?utm_source=translink&utm_medium=primary-tile&utm_content=have-your-say-results%3Futm_campaign

New fare table is in the above link.

From Monday 3 November, public transport fares will drop by 5% across Queensland.

We asked you to have your say on the future of public transport, and more than 20,000 Queenslanders voted.
Cheaper fares

Thanks to everyone who voted!

There will also be no fare increase in January 2015.