Public transport will be made free in two Australian states due to increasing petrol shortages caused by the Iran war.
In a move described as a “temporary measure” to offset rising petrol prices, commuters in Victoria will be able to travel free on trains, trams and buses for a month from March 31.
Meanwhile, fares on buses and ferries have been waived in Tasmania from March 30 to July 1.
Since the outbreak of the Iran war, the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz has become greatly restricted and fuel prices have soared. Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
According to local media reports, petrol prices in Australia have risen from an average of $1.70 per liter (£0.88) before the war to almost $2.50 per liter at some bowers.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen said on Sunday that offering free public transport would make it more affordable for people to choose public transport rather than driving.
“This is a temporary measure to help with the cost of living – it will take the pressure off the pump and help you make savings,” he said.
“This won’t solve every problem, but it’s an immediate step to help Victorians right now while we continue to work on new solutions to make Victoria more affordable.”
A bus in Melbourne, where public transport will be free for a month. Photo: iStock
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliffe said the state’s residents are choosing public transport instead of driving, with a 20% increase seen in the past week.
“We know the rising cost of fuel is putting a strain on family budgets and that’s why we’ve again taken strong and decisive action to protect Tasmanians,” he said.
“We are stepping up to support Tasmanians at a time when they need it most, providing one of the state’s most significant cost-of-living measures.”
Hobart in Tasmania. Photo: iStock
Across Australia, panic buying and shortages, particularly in remote areas, have led to the closure of some fuel stations.
The country is also releasing petrol and diesel from domestic reserves to ease shortages affecting rural supply chains, mining and agriculture.
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With 80% of Asia’s oil and LNG passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the region has been particularly hard hit by fuel shortages and rising prices.
China To address potential domestic fuel shortages, refined fuel exports have been banned.
Rising fuel prices have sparked protests in the Philippines, with government offices now open only four days a week. Bureaucrats should also limit the use of air conditioning to temperatures cooler than 24C.
The Indian government gave priority to households over businesses in the allocation of liquefied petroleum gas, used primarily for cooking, and is absorbing most of the price increase to keep costs down for poor households.
The shortage has forced some restaurants to reduce timings and stop serving foods that absorb a lot of energy to cook, such as curries and deep-fried snacks.
In Thailand, public workers have been asked to take the stairs instead of the elevator.
