Reforms to regional Queensland urban bus networks are approaching another milestone with fare and zones changes to be introduced to five additional regional centres.
From Monday, September 26 the changes take effect in Mackay, Cairns, Townsville and Magnetic Island, Gympie and Rockhampton-Yeppoon.
Changes include the introduction of a consistent fare table and concentric zone structure across all regional areas, similar to South East Queensland.
Translink’s Martin Bradshaw says the new model will provide customers with an equitable and more consistent public transport experience no matter where they travel in Queensland.
“A consistent base fare of $2.40 (adult) and $1.20 (concession) will be introduced across all regional areas and zonal increases set at $0.60 (adult) and $0.30 (concession),” Mr Bradshaw says.
“As a result of the changes, fares will decrease slightly or remain unchanged for the majority of adult and concession trips.
“The changes will also help simplify fare structures to remove customer confusion and pave the way for the future state-wide rollout of smart ticketing.”
The fare and zone changes will be made during school holidays and communicated to students before they resume their travel to minimise any confusion or disruption.
The system is already in place on the Whitsundays urban network and is expected to be introduced to the school network in January.
Image: AAP
