The Tasmanian Government has finalised an agreement that brings a state-wide smart ticketing system across Tasmania's public transport network a step closer.
Minister for Transport, Eric Abetz, said the project with Cubic Transportation Systems would deliver improved payment options including by bank card or smart device, and integrated real-time journey planning.
"You'll be able to pay for your bus or ferry trip with a simple tap of your preferred bank card, phone or watch," Minister Abetz said.
"It won't matter if you leave your travel card at home – you can use whatever payment method you have with you at the time, without the need for pre-loaded travel zones or top-ups.
"This world-leading, smart ticketing system will mean more choices to plan and pay your way. It will make boarding quicker and make using public transport more convenient. It builds on the work we're already doing to make live tracking available to all Tasmanians in December this year."
The announcement comes on the back of more than 2 million half-price bus trips recorded since the 12-month reduced fare scheme launched in June.
"We continue to deliver half-price bus and ferry fares right across our network, helping to reduce the cost of living for Tasmanians," Minister Abetz said.
"As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we committed to half-price bus trips for 12 months. I'm pleased to announce that our Next 100 Days goal of 2 million trips by October has already been reached, demonstrating the success of the half-price fare program.
The agreement with Cubic leverages a partnership with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, giving Tasmania access to technology normally only available to larger jurisdictions.
"This is an excellent example of resource-sharing across jurisdictions for the benefit of Tasmanians," Minister Abetz said.
During the next 12 months, the Tasmanian Government will work with Cubic to configure the product for Tasmania and to conduct back-end and on-road testing. It will then be rolled out to more than 300 buses across Tasmania and Derwent Ferries terminals.
