Between Thursday, July 31, and Friday, August 1, over a million passengers in New South Wales will have the opportunity to travel for free on the train and metro services. This fare-free initiative has been introduced by the state government as a gesture of appreciation for commuters who have faced significant disruptions on the rail network over recent months.
In response to prolonged industrial action that concluded last month, where 92 per cent of union members voted in favour of a new pay agreement with the government, Sydney Trains CEO Matt Longland expressed that this development is a significant victory for both railway staff and passengers. He emphasised that with the resolution of disputes, Sydney Trains can now refocus on providing a reliable and safe transport service without disruptions.
Passengers can enjoy complimentary travel for a full 48 hours, renewing their confidence in the consistency of the train services they depend on. However, it is important to note that fares for buses, ferries, and light rail will remain in effect during this period.
The government is also encouraging the community to take advantage of these free train rides to patronise local businesses that have suffered from the recent transit disruptions. The overall financial impact of this fare-free initiative is estimated to be around $7 million, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting both commuters and local economies during a challenging time.