GOOD TO TAP 'N GO ON WAGGA BUSES

Wagga Wagga is leading the way in regional public transport, with tap and go fare technology to be rolled out to the city’s consumer bus fleet. 

The Independent Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, said the new system would provide safer, more streamlined travel with Busabout passengers able to pay by card or phone. 

However, those who prefer to pay by cash will still be able to do so, with a transition period – possibly of several years – to allow passengers to adapt to the new system. 

“In Question Time last October, I asked Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison about the rollout of contactless payment for Wagga Wagga bus passengers, and I welcome her commitment to bringing this new technology to our city.” Dr McGirr said. 

“It will provide streamlined travel options for passengers wishing to pay fares with cards or devices but importantly, those who wish to pay by cash will still be able to do so, delivering a diversity of choice which will hopefully encourage more people to use public transport in Wagga.” 

The change will bring Wagga into line with metropolitan public transport services and came after regional passengers identified a growing need for the new technology. 

Dr McGirr said the new system could help to ease transport pressures in Wagga as the city grows. 

“As our population expands, so too does demand on our roads network so by encouraging more passengers to take buses we can expect to see pressure reduced on traffic congestion and parking availability,” he said. 

“I thank the minister for listening to our community’s wishes on this important change, which will deliver local travellers the payment options that have been available to metropolitan passengers for years, and it’s pleasing to note that the cash option will still be available to those who do not yet wish to make the change. 

“I congratulate our bus operator, Busabout, for seeking improvements to payments systems for travellers across the city.” 

After it is introduced in Wagga, the system will be rolled out to more than 400 fare-paying bus services in regional and rural areas, with the program to be completed by the end of 2027. 

The Contactless Ticketing Program does not include dedicated school services where students mostly already use pre-paid bus passes or NSW TrainLink long distance coach services where tickets are pre-paid.