Tasmania will continue offering free public transport for another year, with the 2026–27 Budget locking in fare-free public buses and ferries across the state.
The measure extends the free public transport program that began in March and that the Tasmanian government has framed as a major cost-of-living initiative. The Budget also includes investment in public transport infrastructure, including new ferry terminals and further work on Hobart’s Rapid Bus Network.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff says Tasmanians have responded strongly since fares were removed earlier this year.
“Since free public transport was launched in March of this year, Tasmanians have been responding with their feet,” Rockliff says.
“We have seen a significant uptick in patronage across the board, and the 2026–27 Budget backs this in by providing another year of free public transport.”
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Rockliff says the continuation of free buses and ferries is designed to help people travel without adding to household expenses.
“This important cost-of-living measure means Tasmanians can get to where they need to go without the cost,” he says.
“It’s no secret, the nation and indeed the world are facing challenges.”
The Budget commitment comes alongside transport infrastructure funding to improve service access and support future network growth.
Tasmanian infrastructure and transport minister Kerry Vincent says expanding the public transport network is central to the state’s longer-term planning.
“Growing our public transport network across the state is vitally important for the future,” Vincent says.
“We are investing $5 million in our new ferry terminals, which will activate the natural infrastructure provided by the River Derwent, and move Hobartians across the river with greater efficiency.”
“There is also an investment to progress Hobart’s new Rapid Bus Network. When working in partnership with existing buses and ferries, this new network will move thousands of Tasmanians each day to and from work, education and leisure.”
The extension of free public transport places buses and ferries at the centre of Tasmania’s 2026–27 transport commitments, with the government linking fare relief to broader infrastructure planning.
“With free public transport, we’re helping Tasmanians from every corner of the state get to where they need to be,” Vincent says.
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