Greens’ Lord Mayoral candidate Charlotte McCabe has taken a swipe at Chris Minns’ rejection of free public transport to ease financial pressure during the fuel crisis.
While there’s no cost to utilise Victoria’s trains, trams and buses from now until the end of April, or Tasmania’s services until 1 July, the NSW Premier indicated he wouldn’t follow suit.
“There’s no such thing as free public transport,” he told ABC TV.
But, the City of Newcastle councillor explained the reprieve was designed to encourage people to ditch their cars and reduce demand for petrol.
“Newcastle households are already feeling the pinch from the cost-of-living crisis,” said Cr McCabe, who’s vying for the top job against Stephen O’Brien (Socialist Alliance), Gavin Morris (Independent), Declan Clausen (Labor), Jenny Barrie (Liberal) and Milton Caine (Independent) in the upcoming by-election on 18 April.
“Now, they’re being hit with massive petrol price hikes through no fault of their own.
“Other states are stepping up.
“Victoria and Tasmania have introduced temporary free public transport… and Brisbane has 50-cent fares.
“Here in Newcastle, councillors are backing calls for free routes and an end to the failed privatisation of local services.
“So, Mr Minns’ refusal beggars belief.
“At a time when families need relief, he’s standing in the way of practical solutions.
“Petrol prices have jumped by up to 75 cents per litre since the start of the war.
“That’s as much as $40 extra every time a family fills up.”
Cr McCabe stated free public transport would immediately ease pressure.
“People who can switch modes will save money while reduced demand will help stabilise supply for those who rely on driving,” she explained.
“This is not a normal situation, so it requires practical action.
“The warmongers have created a petrol crisis and we’re being hit.
“If this continues, rising costs will start hitting local businesses and jobs even harder.
“Australia is being exposed by our slow transition to electric vehicles and, right now, we need immediate relief.
“I’m calling on Chris Minns to back free public transport.
“Novocastrians are right to be looking at their local leaders and asking who stands up for them.”
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