2024-11-27
The ACT Greens say the Government should have taken the time to get MyWay+ right, to encourage more people to use public transport in Canberra.
“Canberrans deserve a great quality, affordable and reliable public transport system,” said Andrew Braddock MLA, ACT Greens spokesperson for Transport.
“Why did the government run the trial period, if they weren’t going to listen to community feedback before rolling it out?
“What should be a really attractive new feature in our public transport system is today confusing, inconvenient and stressful for people across Canberra.
“Perhaps most worryingly, concession holders have been slapped with administrative headaches as they struggle to get their MyWay+ accounts set up. It should be easier, not harder, for those who need it most, to access public transport.
“The Greens went to the election saying concession card holders like pensioners and school kids should be able to travel for free across the ACT’s whole public transport network, 24/7.
“In light of the struggles parents are having to get their kids set up with MyWay+, be it the shortage of cards or troubles with the online system, we think now is a good time for Labor to pick up our proposal.
“Fare free Fridays are one thing, but making daily life more affordable and convenient is what public transport is for. We should extend free travel in targeted ways as part of tackling inequality in our city.
“The Transport Minister should now make clear that until the MyWay+ system is fully established, passengers will not be fined for a failure to pay their fare.
“Adjustments and improvements to the MyWay+ system as the rollout continues must be informed by genuine consultation with the community, who know best what they need.
“To protect our climate and to create a liveable city for all Canberrans, the government must step up to ensure a great quality, affordable and reliable public transport system.”