On behalf of a constituent, Rachel asked a question about cost-free travel on public transport for bus drivers.
Rachel’s constituent works 30-hour weeks as a bus driver. As these are split shifts, he must make 4 trips to and from his job each workday. Full-time bus drivers in Victoria are currently entitled to a travel pass, allowing them to access public transport at no cost. Rachel advocated that these travel passes be extended to all bus drivers in the state, regardless of part-time or full-time employment status.
Tuesday the 17th of June 2025,
Victorian Legislative Council
Rachel Payne (South-Eastern Metropolitan):
My constituency question is for the Minister for Public and Active Transport.
My constituent is a resident of Clyde North. He works 30 hours per week as a bus driver. My constituent spends many hours and four car trips to get to and from work. Public transport would help him get to work quicker and stress free.
Victorian bus drivers can apply for a free public transport travel pass; however, my constituent was dismayed to discover that he does not qualify because he is not considered a full-time employee.
In 2023, New South Wales changed their laws to free travel on public transport to all bus drivers, supporting the industry and incentivising more drivers to get behind the wheel.
So my constituent asks: will the minister take New South Wales’ lead and provide free travel passes to all bus drivers?
[Response pending]
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