Rising oil prices, Australia makes public transport free

Public transport in two Australian states will be made free to encourage people not to drive, as fuel prices rise sharply due to the war in the Middle East.

Victoria has said there will be free travel throughout April, while Tasmania has said commuters will not have to pay from Monday until the end of June.

However, governments of other states have so far refused to follow suit, writes A2.

Australia has seen fuel prices rise significantly since the start of the US-Israeli war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The near-total blockade of international maritime transport on the vital waterway - through which about 20% of the world's oil and natural gas flows - has prompted governments around the world to begin implementing measures to save fuel.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese tried to reassure motorists on Friday after reports of panic buying and run-out at petrol stations.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced on Saturday that trains, trams and buses in the state will be free for everyone from Tuesday, in a bid to ease pressure on petrol pumps.

"This won't solve every problem, but it's an immediate step to help Victorians now," she said.

Meanwhile, the government of Tasmania - an island near the Australian mainland - announced that people will be able to take its buses, coaches and ferries free of charge for several months.

"We know the rising cost of fuel is impacting on household budgets and that's why we have again taken strong and decisive action to protect Tasmanians," said its Premier, Jeremy Rockliff.

Tasmania's transport minister also noted that paid school buses will become free, saving those who use them 20 Australian dollars a week.

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