The Queensland government has reduced public transport fares for jobseekers and asylum seekers as part of its Fairer Fares package.
Announcing the change, the transport minister and deputy premier, Jackie Trad, said that those eligible — asylum seekers, and individuals on Newstart Allowance or Youth Allowance — would receive a 50 per cent discount.
“These fare concessions will encourage travel across the Queensland public transport network connecting job seekers with employment services and job interviews,” the minister said.
“Asylum seekers who also rely on public transport to access important services like education and settlement support services will be able to apply.”
The new concessions, applicable from early April, form part of the government’s Farer Fairs program which started in December 2016 across South East Queensland.
Minister Trad stated that these latest additions focused on providing better access to employment and services for eligible groups.
“We have a responsibility to help those in our community who are often doing it tough while they are looking for work and accessing community services.
“By reducing the cost of public transport for job seekers and asylum seekers, we are delivering on a promise made under the Fairer Fares package.”
Applications are to be made through the Translink website and eligible individuals will receive the concession on their go travel card within 14 days. Asylum seekers looking to apply may also do so through the Status Resolution Support Service.