Commencing on Monday 23 June 2014, ACTION Transport Officers will be undertaking regular ticket inspections to ensure passengers have paid the correct fare for their journey.
“We are confident that most of our passengers are doing the right thing, but this initiative will help ensure travelling on our public transport system is fair and equitable,” said Chief Operating Officer, ACTION, Bren Burkevics.
“The inspection of passenger tickets is common practice by public transport operators across Australia and is an important strategy to deter fare evasion and ensure everyone gets the benefit of a fair and equitable public transport system.
“The inspections will verify that passengers have purchased the correct fare for their journey using a MyWay card or cash and have evidence of their entitlement to use a concession fare.
“ACTION Transport Officers will check that MyWay cards have been tagged on, have enough credit and provide the right concession entitlement using portable card reader devices. Transport Officers will also check the validity of receipts for cash fares.
“Passengers that are identified as not having the correct fare or evidence of concession entitlement may be asked to pay the correct fare, officially warned or directed to leave the bus in certain circumstances. Following an education period, fines may also be considered for passengers that are identified as not having the correct fare.
“Transport Officers will check MyWay cards and ticket receipts on board buses and when passengers attempt to board or disembark at bus stops and stations.
“The increased inspections will help protect ACTION revenues, ensure that passengers are paying their way and promote fair and equitable behaviour amongst the bus user community.”
Mr Burkevics said the checks will be taking place on board buses and when passengers disembark and embark buses. Transport Officers will endeavour not to delay or disrupt bus services while they carry out their duties.
For more information on ACTION’s fares please visit www.action.act.gov.au