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Jacinta Allan has asked the companies operating the state’s toll roads to make them free over the summer holidays, a request that follows her earlier announcement of free weekend public transport during the Metro Tunnel’s opening.
The premier is attempting to expand the government’s free travel initiatives but relies on the cooperation of private toll operators such as Linkt and ConnectEast.
The Yarraville entrance to the West Gate Tunnel.Credit: Simon Schluter
In a letter shared on social media, Allan said the request followed her announcement on Wednesday that public transport would be free on weekends for two months this summer.
“That means a free ride on every train, every bus, every weekend – everywhere – from the opening of the Metro Tunnel in early December, until February 1, 2026,” the letter addressed to toll companies Linkt and ConnectEast reads.
“In the spirit of our free public transport bonanza over summer, I’m asking you to join us.
“Victorians would be thrilled if you offered some savings for them over the summer period on CityLink, EastLink – and the new West Gate Tunnel when it opens.”
The premier will speak to reporters on Thursday morning at the West Gate Tunnel in Footscray, alongside Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams.
The press conference comes a day after CFMEU workers walked off the job at the West Gate Tunnel and other sites across Victoria due to a dispute with a developer in South Australia.
Sources confirmed that workers halted work on the $10.1 billion project on Tuesday, citing safety concerns as the reason for the stoppage.
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