Tuesday, 5 May 2026

 Sarah CONNOLLY (Laverton) (14:28): We know that right now so many Victorians are doing it tough, and the war in the Middle East has caused major disruptions, especially to our fuel supply, making it harder and more expensive for folks to get around, which is why I am so pleased that our government has placed cost-of-living relief at the heart of this year’s budget. Already folks are benefiting from our government’s free public transport initiative, which we have extended to the end of this month. It means that folks can leave the car at home and can catch a bus or a train to get around without having to touch on or pay a cent. From June this year they will continue to save money with our half-price fares, but this does not include our existing free public transport policies, including for young people, which is free for under 18s all the time, and free travel on weekends for seniors and disability pensioners and their carers. If you do not or will not catch the train or a bus, if you prefer to drive around in your car, there is something for you too, because our government is funding a 20 per cent rebate on your car registration fees, saving you up to $186 per vehicle that you own, which you can claim from 1 June. If you are a family who has two cars at home, that is $372 that a family can save, because we know that every little bit helps. It is real cost-of-living support being delivered right now when Victorians need it most.