Free public transport rolled out in Australia as fuel crisis deepens

Two Australian states have introduced free public transport in response to sharp fuel price increases linked to ongoing disruption in global oil supplies caused by the Iran conflict.

In Victoria, passengers will be able to use trains, trams and buses at no cost for a month from 31 March. Meanwhile, Tasmania has removed fares on buses and ferries for a longer period, running from 30 March until 1 July.

The measures come as petrol prices across Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific region surge following restrictions on oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global energy route that handles around 80% of the region’s oil and liquefied natural gas.

Fuel costs in Australia have risen dramatically, with prices climbing from around $1.70 per litre before the conflict to as high as $2.50 per litre in some areas. Shortages have also been reported, particularly in remote regions, with some fuel stations