The SA Liberal Party’s promise of 50 cent public transport fares has ignited debate, with community independents and the state government hitting back.
If elected in March 2026, the Opposition has announced it will slash fares across the Adelaide Metro network to 50 cents, extend on-demand bus services to regions and, for the first time, introduce a direct service from Murray Bridge to Adelaide.
Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia said the policy would help families struggling with costs.
“Reducing fares across the Adelaide Metro to 50 cents will give families a real and practical saving, with a family of two parents and two students saving up to $100 a week,” he said.
Independent candidate for Hammond, Airlie Keen, said the move is “too little, too late.”
“Now that they are facing serious challenges from credible community independents, the state Liberals have announced a public transport policy for the regions and by their own admission, it’s the first time in a generation they have done so,” she said.
“This promise means very little as they have to get into government before they can deliver on it.”
The Malinauskas government has also dismissed the plan, claiming the costings are off by $75 million and risk undermining service levels.
“Our government fought hard to get train and tram services back in public control, where they belong,” transport minister Emily Bourke said.
“Now we’re seeing the same party that privatised our trains and trams failing to do their homework, with zero credibility and a long track record of cuts.”
The Liberals argue their policy will boost public transport patronage by up to 40 per cent, while Labor maintains its own reforms, including free seniors travel and 25 cent student fares, are already delivering benefits.
The Liberal Member for Hammond Liberal Member for Hammond and Shadow Minister for Regional Roads, Adrian Pederick, said the new direct route from Murray Bridge to Adelaide will be a game-changer.
“This would allow residents to travel more often into the city for work or pleasure and put more money back into their pockets to spend on things they enjoy,” Mr Pederick said.
“Just because you choose to live in regional South Australia doesn’t mean you should pay more
for public services.”
