Cheap buses, no rail strike and free tram zone extended for AFL final celebrations in VIC
Bus, train and tram fares will be capped at $6 in Melbourne and the free tram zone extended during AFL Grand Final celebrations, the Victorian Government announced this week.
The discounted bus fares will apply on Friday and Saturday only, but the extension of free tram services to reach the roads north and south of the MCG comes into effect from Wednesday and lasts until midnight on Saturday.
The Rail, Bus and Tram Union (RBTU) had also planned to strike on Thursday with no trains running from 10am to 2pm, and no fare evasion checks on Grand Final day, but this has been called off for now – as the RBTU edges closer to a reaching satisfactory deal with Metro Trains.
“I’m optimistic we can work through the remaining issues by end of Monday as we continue to strive for a fair enterprise agreement,” RTBU Victorian secretary Luba Grigorovitch says.
The changes to strike action aside, Victorian minister for public transport Jacinta Allan is confident this week’s fare changes will make life easier for footy fans and others trying to move about the city.
“Grand final week is one of Victoria’s great celebrations, with thousands of fans from across Australia descending on Melbourne to see the biggest match of the year at the home of footy,” she says.
“Extending the free tram zone will get people from the city to the MCG free of charge, making it easier to enjoy the Grand Final and Victoria’s newest public holiday.”
People can catch the tram for free from the city to Rod Laver and Hisense Arena on the south side of the MCG, or services that reach northern entrance.
Bus, train and tram services will also operate to a Saturday timetable on Friday, with additional metropolitan and V/Line services put on to accommodate the crowds.