Tassie’s free public transport initiative has scrapped fares on buses and ferries statewide for a full year, extending a cost-of-living measure that has already sharply lifted patronage since a trial began in late March 2026.
The first full year of Tassie’s free public transport across the state has begun with no fares on all general access bus services and the Derwent Ferries until 30 June 2027.
The $24 million State Government initiative covers adult, concession, urban, non-urban and child or student fares, plus all government-contracted school bus services that charge a fare and the Derwent Ferries.
Free travel runs until 30 June 2027 and follows a popular three-month trial launched in response to higher fuel prices.
How much has demand jumped
The number of people catching Metro buses has increased by about 37 per cent since fares were dropped, while rides on Kinetic services have jumped about 46 per cent.
Passengers are encouraged to allow extra travel time during peak periods as operators manage the higher demand for Tassie’s free public transport.
What travellers need to know
No fare is required while free travel is in place, and customers should not tap their GreenCard when boarding. They simply hop on and take a seat to take advantage of Tassie’s free public transport.
The change also matters for visitors moving between Tasmania’s key hubs, at a time when Qantas is adding 40,000 seats to its Hobart route for the peak summer. The measure covers routes such as Hobart to Devonport and the North West Coast run from Burnie to Devonport, while the Derwent Ferry drops commuters straight into the Hobart CBD.
Why it matters for the trade
Free intercity buses and ferries are ideal for clients touring Tasmania, particularly self-guided travellers linking Hobart, Sorell, Burnie and Devonport without a hire car.
Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure & Transport Kerry Vincent said Tassie’s free public transport measure was about delivering major cost-of-living relief.
“For many Tasmanians, this is a huge saving. For people heading into Hobart from Sorell or along the North West Coast going from Burnie to Devonport or beyond, this is a major financial relief,” he said.
“We have heard stories of Tasmanians taking the bus all the way from Hobart up to Devonport saving plenty along the way. The Derwent Ferry has been taking commuters in higher numbers than ever across the river straight into the heart of the CBD.”
KARRYON UNPACKS: Free buses and ferries won’t reshape a Tasmania itinerary, but they help clients moving between the state’s main centres and add a small, easy selling point with Tassie’s free public transport for self-drive alternatives and city stays through to mid-2027.
