- Free public transport to all SmartRider users from 14 December to 5 February
- Initiative to help with cost-of-living pressures and encourage activity over summer
- Savings of hundreds of dollars for regular public transport users
- Western Australians encouraged to explore METRONET stations recently opened
- Part of Cook Labor Government commitment to tackling cost-of-living pressures
The Cook Labor Government will deliver another Summer of Free Public Transport, saving regular commuters hundreds of dollars and helping Western Australians get out and about over summer.
The $14 million scheme will begin on Saturday, 14 December and run until Wednesday, 5 February, with free public transport available to all SmartRider users in the Perth metropolitan area and regional WA, on trains, buses and ferries.
A family of four can save up to $30 on a single trip in public transport costs through the initiative.
Last year’s Summer of Free Public Transport initiative saw 8.3 million SmartRider boardings across bus, train or ferry services – an increase of 42 per cent compared to the same period in 2022-23.
Passengers must tag on and off at the beginning and end of their journey to access free travel. Parking at METRONET stations will also be free during this time when passengers use their SmartRider at parking stations.
The Summer of Free Public Transport builds on the Cook Labor Government’s highly successful free public transport initiatives, including the Ride to School Free Program – which continues next year – and Fare Free Sundays.
SmartRider cards are available from a wide range of retail outlets and Transperth InfoCentres. More information can be found on the Transperth website.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
“I want every Western Australian to be able to get out and about this summer and enjoy everything our city has to offer.
“Our Summer of Free Public Transport was a huge success last summer, saving families and commuters hundreds of dollars and encouraging activity in the city over the holidays.
“Tackling cost-of-living pressures is WA Labor’s top priority, and we’ll do whatever we can to support WA families.
“Our investment in METRONET and public infrastructure is connecting our suburbs and providing residents with cheap or free transport options.”
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Last year’s Summer of Free Public Transport was an enormous success, with a 42 per cent increase in SmartRider boardings compared to the same period in the previous year.
“Based on the success of last year’s scheme and the incredible take-up, we’re providing this important initiative again, helping families save on travel costs this festive period.
“Catching public transport is a great way for families and young kids to explore our city, and thanks to the major expansion through METRONET, you can reach more places than ever before.
“So leave the car at home, and get on a train, bus or ferry and make the most of the free public transport this summer.”
