Media Release: Free transport for school kids a win for transport in NSW

The new NSW Opposition leader’s announcement today that all school children under 16 will receive free public transport is exactly the type of transport policy the state needs, the Rail, Tram and Bus Union says.

RTBU NSW Secretary, Alex Claassens, said Michael Daley’s announcement that children under 16 will receive transport while they remain at school will be a huge boost for transport broadly.

“This isn’t just good news for families, this is good news for every commuter in the state,” Mr Claassens said.

“This will no doubt encourage more families onto public transport, meaning fewer cars on our heavily congested roads.

“While we’re yet to see the exact detail of the policy, all the evidence suggests today’s announcement is a win for transport across the board and a win for the back pocket of families.

RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva said free public transport for children was game changer for families in Western Sydney and the outer suburbs.

“For a family of three coming into Sydney city from the Western Suburbs, it can cost around $56 just in travel costs, so this will make a huge difference.

“Encouraging more families to use public transport will help take cars off our congested roads, and reduce the crippling economic and social costs of transport congestion.

“That’s why this announcement is not just good news for families, it’s smart public policy.”