Free Public Transport Launches Today Across Hobart as Bridge Works Continue

Major Fare-Free Initiative Begins Today

In a significant move to combat rising cost-of-living pressures and record-high fuel prices, the Tasmanian Government has officially launched a fare-free public transport scheme starting today, Monday, 30 March 2026. Commuters across Hobart can now travel at no cost on all public bus services and the Derwent Ferry. This initiative, scheduled to run until July 1, 2026, includes all routes operated by Metro Tasmania, Kinetic, Redline, and TassieLink.

Transport officials expect a surge in patronage as residents shift away from private vehicles. For example, a daily commuter from Dodges Ferry to the Hobart CBD could save up to $88 per week under the new measures. While no additional services have been added to the timetable, authorities will be monitoring capacity closely throughout the first week of the rollout to manage potential overcrowding during peak morning and afternoon periods.

Bridgewater and Tasman Bridge Updates

Traffic flow across the River Derwent remains stable as several major infrastructure projects reach critical phases. Commuters using the Midland Highway are reminded that while the new Bridgewater Bridge has been fully operational since June 2025, the dismantling of the old structure is still underway. Work to remove the final sections of the old lift-span bridge will continue through mid-2026. While no major road closures are scheduled for today, minor delays may occur near the Granton and Bridgewater interchanges due to heavy machinery and trucks entering and exiting the demolition site.

On the Tasman Bridge, the construction tender for the main safety barrier and pathway upgrades is set to close this week on April 1. Current activity is largely focused on the Eastern Shore pathway connections. While all traffic lanes remain open during daylight hours, pedestrians and cyclists are advised to follow directional signage as crews finalize connection works before the main structural upgrades begin later this year.

Southern Outlet and Local Improvements

Commuters traveling from the south should prepare for changes at the Olinda Grove roundabout. Signalization work at this bottleneck is scheduled to commence this autumn to help manage the heavy morning queues that often spill back onto the Southern Outlet. Once active, these signals will meter traffic coming from Mount Nelson to prioritize vehicles exiting the highway off-ramp.

Additionally, the Southern Outlet Transit Lane project remains in the tendering phase. Commuters should expect increased survey activity along the rockface near the Olinda Grove ramp as engineers prepare for the upcoming construction of the north-bound T3 lane.

Commuter Advice for Monday

• Plan Ahead: With free fares commencing today, allow extra time for your bus commute as passenger numbers are expected to increase by over 20%.
• Ferry Services: The Derwent Ferry is also included in the free travel scheme; check the latest sailing times for a quicker cross-river alternative.
• Bridge Safety: Maintain a steady speed and keep a safe distance when passing through the Bridgewater work zones.