Brimbank Councillors have welcomed the State Government’s decision to extend free public transport until the end of May 2026, with half-price fares to follow for the remainder of the year.
The decision follows Councillor’s appeal to the State Government in April to better support Brimbank residents facing mounting financial pressure due to rising fuel costs and the broader cost-of-living challenges, which they continue to advocate for.
Councillors formally wrote to the Victorian Government calling for extended free public transport and greater investment in accessible transport services and infrastructure across Melbourne’s west.
The advocacy highlights the unequal impact of rising fuel prices on communities like Brimbank, where limited public transport options and connectivity mean many residents rely on private vehicles.
In their letter to the Hon. Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Transport, Councillors called on the State Government to:
- extend free public transport to 30 June 2026, in line with the fuel excise
- deliver more frequent and better-connected bus services
- include the three routes prioritised by Infrastructure Victoria as new rapid bus transit routes to improve connectivity in Melbourne’s west. (These routes are Tarneit to Highpoint, Point Cook to Watergardens and Melton to Broadmeadows)
- invest in safer, better connected cycling infrastructure.
These measures aim to provide immediate financial relief while addressing long term transport gaps across Melbourne’s west.
Council encourages residents needing support to access available services and resources on our dedicated webpage.
Mayor Cr Virginia Tachos said:
“Many households in Brimbank are doing it tough. Rising fuel and living costs are placing real pressure on our community, and we have been working hard to ensure their voices are heard.”
“We are delighted to welcome the State Government’s decision to extend free public transport until the end of June 2026, followed by half price fares for the remainder of the year.”
“I commend Cr Truong and Cr Nguyen for their strong and responsive advocacy for our community, particularly in pushing for the continuation of free public transport during a time of rising living costs.”
“Cr Truong and Cr Nguyen have demonstrated clear leadership in championing increased investment in public transport services and infrastructure, ensuring our growing diverse community remains connected, accessible and supported.”
