Public transport users in Perth are set to experience a significant upgrade in ticketing technology by the end of this year, as announced by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti. This new system will allow passengers to pay for their bus, train, and ferry fares using their smartphones and bank cards, a move aimed at modernizing the public transport experience.
However, the rollout of this technology has faced considerable delays, with the project now more than a year behind schedule and over $10 million over budget. Initially, the new ticketing system was expected to be completed by mid-2024 at a cost of $58 million, but recent updates indicate that the total expenditure has ballooned to approximately $68 million.
A New Era for Public Transport
The ticketing overhaul is currently being trialed on Swan River ferries, with plans to expand to buses and trains if the initial tests prove successful. Minister Saffioti announced that 50 regular ferry users will participate in a four-week trial, followed by a second phase involving 150 public transport users across various modes of transport. The goal is to have the system fully operational for the general public by the end of the year.
“This is about making sure there’s no reason people don’t jump on public transport,” Saffioti stated, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and convenience in encouraging public transport use.
Challenges and Delays
The delays in the SmartRider system upgrade have been attributed to a combination of technical challenges and supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project, which involves the installation of around 4,100 new readers across the ferry system, buses, train stations, and trains, has faced scrutiny for its escalating costs and timeline.
In a recent report, the Auditor-General highlighted the SmartRider upgrade as one of ten major IT projects that have exceeded their budgets and timelines. The report called for greater transparency regarding the status and financial implications of such projects, noting that taxpayers deserve clear information about public spending.
The Future of SmartRider
Despite the introduction of the new payment technology, the existing SmartRider system will remain operational for the time being. This system, which allows users to access concession fares, currently accounts for 84% of public transport trips in Western Australia. Saffioti noted that even in other states where credit card payments are accepted, similar systems to SmartRider are still in place to accommodate concession fares.
“As we progress, we’ll see what happens with the SmartRider over the longer term,” she remarked, indicating that a comprehensive review of the system’s future will be conducted as the new technology is implemented.
Public Transport’s Cashless Future
The question of whether the entire public transport network will transition to a cashless system remains open. Minister Saffioti acknowledged that while many businesses and services are moving towards cashless transactions, no final decision has been made regarding the complete elimination of cash payments in public transport.
“I think the reality nowadays is that most of the public do have interactions which are cashless,” she stated, reflecting a broader trend seen in urban centers worldwide. However, she emphasized the need for further engagement with the public before making any definitive changes.
Value for Money
In response to concerns about the project’s cost overruns, the Public Transport Authority (PTA) defended the SmartRider upgrade, asserting that it is being completed at a fraction of the cost of similar projects in other cities, such as Melbourne. The PTA emphasized that the investment in public transport is not just about immediate financial returns but also about long-term benefits for the community.
“When you invest in public transport, people will use it,” Saffioti concluded, highlighting the positive impacts that improved public transport can have on urban mobility and environmental sustainability. She noted that a well-functioning public transport system can reduce traffic congestion, benefiting not only commuters but also those who rely on roadways for personal travel.
Conclusion
As Perth prepares for the rollout of its new ticketing technology, the challenges faced during the SmartRider upgrade serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in modernizing public transport systems. While the delays and budget overruns are concerning, the potential benefits of a more accessible and efficient public transport network could significantly enhance the commuting experience for residents and visitors alike. The successful implementation of this technology may pave the way for a more sustainable and user-friendly public transport system in Western Australia.
