LABOR is keeping Sunraysia voters in the dark about whether a $9.20 regional transport fare election promise would include trips between Mildura and Melbourne.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced the cost of a daily ticket on the V/Line network would be capped at $9.20, in line with metropolitan fares, if Labor were re-elected later this month.
The announcement had a focus on train services from the likes of Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Shepparton.
When questioned by Sunraysia Daily, however, Labor could not confirm whether Mildura residents would be able to ride the bus and train to Melbourne for only $9.20.
A spokesperson responded: “My understanding is that the fare will be capped at $9.20 across the journey, but these details would be confirmed if Labor is re-elected.”
Labor was also unable to provide details on whether Mildura’s transport would move to the Myki ticketing system, despite Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll reportedly making a commitment to move “the entire state” to Myki from March next year.
The fare cap was to include $4.60 fares for concession travellers, putting the program’s estimated cost at $203 million.
“Cheaper fares, comfortable trains and more frequent services – that’s what matters to commuters across regional Victoria, and that’s what Labor will deliver,” Mr Andrews said.
The Coalition last month pledged to halve V/Line fares, which would reduce a one-way Mildura to Melbourne ticket from $56.80 to $28.40 for adults and $28.40 to $14.20 concession.
