LNP turns it back on Fairer Fares for commuters and Cross River Rail

The Queensland LNP’s budget response failed to mention public transport, fare relief or Queensland’s number on infrastructure project Cross River Rail once.

Minister for Transport Stirling Hinchliffe said Tim Nicholls budget reply speech confirmed the LNP are not on board with the Palaszczuk Government’s Fairer Fare Package.

“The Opposition Leader’s address was more than 6,200 words but never once mentioned the state’s most urgent infrastructure project or fare relief for commuters,” Mr Hinchliffe said. 

“Tim Nicholls has turned his back on every commuter in South East Queensland.

“We know that by opposing the Government’s core budget measures Tim Nicholls started his reply speech with a $7 billion black hole.

“This budget black hole hides their secret agenda of cuts and asset sales.

“Reading between the lines it is clear the LNP only have a plan to leave commuters behind and axe Fairer Fares."

Mr Hinchliffe said the LNP also dodged the opportunity to finally bring bipartisan support to Cross River Rail.

“The Palaszczuk Government has established and funded a Delivery Authority for Cross River Rail and Tim Nicholls and the LNP couldn’t even be bothered to mention it once.

“The LNP are chasing the wrong bus if they think Queenslanders will accept an alternative government that doesn’t have a plan for public transport.

“If the LNP were genuine about putting Queenslander’s first, they’d stop being negative and get on board with cheaper fares and give Cross River Rail long overdue bipartisan support.”

Media contact: Jessica Hill 0475 950 772