Paul Nicolaou criticises Sydney’s fare-free Monday after rail chaos

·

Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou has criticised the NSW government’s decision to offer fare-free travel today, arguing it falls short of compensating commuters and businesses for last week’s major train delays.

The disruption, caused by a live cable falling across a train during high winds, brought Sydney’s rail network to a halt, stranding thousands of commuters.

In response, Premier Chris Minns announced fare-free travel for today, a move Nicolaou says misses the mark.

“Current data, supported by business feedback, indicates that office occupancy on Mondays and Fridays averages between 50 and 60 per cent, in contrast to 80 to 90 per cent on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays,” Nicolaou said.

Photo: Steven Markham / AAP Photos.

“A fare-free Monday is a nice gesture but it’s not enough on its own. What we need is targeted, long-term investment and incentives to encourage public transport use.”

He warned that last week’s chaos damaged confidence in the city’s transport system.

“We can’t afford more meltdowns like last week’s – it was a big setback to the recovery of the city because it has shaken confidence so badly,” he said.

Nicolaou’s concerns were echoed by others, including former transport minister David Elliott, who suggested the fare-free day be held on the weekend to benefit families and boost local businesses.

Source: Daily Telegraph.

greek film festival sydney new

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greece and Crete named as destinations for 2026 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship tour

NSW Premier Chris Minns announced Greece and Crete as destinations for the 2026 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship school study tour.

Jason Sourasis faces dual legal battles over Pendlebury allegations and $6.7m tax debt

Sports entrepreneur Jason Sourasis, accused of misappropriating millions from Scott Pendlebury, also owes the ATO $6.7 m, new filings reveal.

Australia to formally recognise World Greek Language Day after earlier UNESCO abstention

The Australian Government will officially recognise UNESCO’s World Greek Language Day (February 9). Read more here.

Arthur Sinodinos AO welcomes Australia-US critical minerals deal

Former Australian ambassador to the US Arthur Sinodinos has welcomed the newly signed Australia–US critical minerals investment deal.

Greece moves to ban protests at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, sparking outcry

Greece’s government has proposed a ban on protests at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the monument outside Parliament in Athens.

You May Also Like

Where uncertainty met hope: ‘Finding Home’ exhibition honours Greek spirit at Bonegilla

Block 19 of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre was the “first step” in Theofanis Emmanouilidis’ life in Australia.

Greek cultural legacy at Sydney Olympic Park faces demolition under 2050 Masterplan

Greek Australians have raised concerns over the potential demolition of Stockroute Park and the Discobolus sculpture at Sydney Olympic Park.

Greek food connects family across the world during Christmas

However, Greeks across the world come together as one during the time of Christmas, as they use Greek food as a bridge to bring together their families and loved ones during this special time of year.