Families across South Australia could soon see their weekly travel costs slashed, with the Liberal Party promising a flat 50 cent fare for all public transport rides if elected in March 2026.
Leader of the Opposition, Vincent Tarzia, says the policy puts everyday South Australians at the heart of the party’s campaign, addressing what he calls Labor’s ongoing cost of living crisis.
“South Australians are doing it tough, and under Labor those pressures are only getting worse. If a Liberal Government is elected, we will act. Cutting fares across Adelaide Metro to just 50 cents will mean real, practical savings for families,” Mr Tarzia said.
For a household with two parents and two school-aged children, the reduced fares could deliver savings of up to $100 each week. Mr Tarzia says that sort of relief can make all the difference.
“This is a policy that takes the pressure off household budgets. It means more money for groceries, bills and day-to-day expenses while still ensuring people can get to work, school, and appointments affordably.”
Shadow Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Ben Hood, said the initiative would also have a flow-on effect across the city and regions, giving commuters an incentive to leave their cars at home.
“We know from other states that a flat fee system can increase patronage by up to 40%. That means fewer cars clogging our arterial roads, less time wasted in traffic, and more time with family,” Mr Hood said.
The Liberals’ policy would not stop at metropolitan Adelaide. Regional areas would also benefit, with fares capped at 50 cents and new services planned. The party has pledged to extend on-demand buses to the Barossa, Port Pirie, Victor Harbor and the Adelaide Hills, while also introducing a new direct service between Murray Bridge and Adelaide.
“This will be the most comprehensive regional public transport policy of a generation,” Mr Hood said. “For too long, regional communities have been overlooked when it comes to transport services. We want to change that.”
Shadow Minister for Cost of Living, Heidi Girolamo, said the commitment reflected the party’s determination to return fairness to public transport.
“Affordable, reliable transport is a right, not a privilege. No matter where you live – in the CBD, outer suburbs, or regional SA – you should have access to public transport without paying through the roof,” she said.
The Liberals also point to broader benefits, including a likely downturn in fare evasion and reduced costs for road maintenance as fewer vehicles are on the road.
“This is a policy that not only helps families but helps the state as a whole,” Mr Tarzia said. “It’s practical, affordable, and puts South Australians first.”
