Seniors on the Sunshine Coast will be entitled to free off-peak travel on local trains if the LNP wins the next state election on October 31.

LNP Member for Kawana Jarrod Bleijie said free off-peak fares for seniors using the Citytrain network was part of the party’s bold plan to bust congestion across South-East Queensland.

As part of the LNP plan, students starting full-time university and TAFE courses will also be able to apply for $500 vouchers to pay for bus or train fares.

“The LNP’s plan is all about getting cars off the roads and cutting congestion,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Congestion is having a big impact on the quality of life in areas like the Sunshine Coast.
“The LNP’s plan will get more cars off the road, save drivers time, and save seniors and students money.”

Infrastructure Australia predicts that road use in the South-East will rise by another 21 per cent in the next decade, costing the region’s economy $6 billion a year.

Under the LNP plan, seniors would be offered free travel on the Citytrain network between 8.30am and 3.30pm and between 7pm and 6am, as well as all-day on weekends and public holidays.

The scheme, which would cost an estimated $2.7m a year, would create extra capacity across the Citytrain network during peak hours.

Student travel vouchers would be available to those starting new full-time courses to encourage them to defer car purchases and use public transport instead. The two-year trial scheme would cost $5m a year.

“The LNP’s plan will make it easier for seniors to get around, catch up with friends and family, as well as saving them precious dollars,” Mr Bleijie said.

“The LNP will help students because we know the costs of studying at uni or TAFE can deter some young people from gaining the skills they need to get a secure job and brighter future.”