Free travel extended, discounts to follow

Victoria’s free public transport period has been extended.

Premier Jacinta Allan announced on Sunday that all public transport will remain free until the end of May.

When fares return in June, they will be half price until the end of the year.

The initiative is designed to provide cost of living relief due to knock-one effects from the conflict in Iran.

“It is clear the higher prices at the fuel pump will be felt for some time,” Allan said.

“As premier I remain determined to do everything within my control to help Victorian’s deal with the cost of living and these rising fuel prices.”

Allan said free transport will take pressure off the fuel supply and support Victorian’s wallets.

“This is an affordable approach so we can continue helping Victorians as the impact of this war go on,” she said.

The announcement comes just days after a fire at the Geelong refinery spiked fuel production concerns.

The fire caused production at the refinery to drop by 40 per cent, a week after it was announced production through the refinery would be increased to address demand.

Prime minister Anthony Albanese said he expects production to increase again in the coming weeks.

“The advice that we have received today is that 80 per cent of diesel production is continuing, [and] 80 per cent of aviation fuel is continuing,” Albanese said.

“It has been slowed down just slightly because of the circumstances which are there, but 60 per cent of petrol production [is] proceeding today as well.

“We hope that ramps up over the coming period.”

Viva Energy’s Geelong refinery is one of just two in Australia.

Use of public transport across the state has surged since fares were scrapped at the beginning of April, with Public Transport Victoria reporting strong demand across the network, particularly on V/Line weekend services. Extra coaches have been deployed where possible.

Disruptions on the Geelong line are due to continue until 24 April, with coaches replacing trains between Wyndham Vale and Waurn Ponds.

Free travel will remain in place for under-18s at all times and for seniors on weekends.