PTUA does not support the Free Tram Zone, due to the problems it causes, including crowding, and the lack of benefits it provides to paying public transport users. We also do not support the Zone being extended.
Data indicates the Free Tram Zone has increased tram usage at the expense of “active” modes (walking and cycling) rather than driving, and appears to have encouraged more people to drive into the City and Docklands, while also resulting in delays due to overcrowding at tram stops.
The money spent on providing the Free Tram Zone would be better spent extending and upgrading services across Melbourne, particularly in the middle and outer suburbs, to provide more people with viable alternatives to car travel.
More details: PTUA’s submission to the Free Tram Zone Parliamentary Inquiry (PDF)
- Media coverage: Herald Sun 3/2/2020; Rail Express 6/2/2020
- Victorian Parliament: Inquiry into Expanding Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone