The Victorian government has committed to abolishing a levy on public transport fares that was previously applied without public notification. Deputy Premier Ben Carroll announced the decision on Thursday, stating that the government intends to remove the charge because it was implemented in a way that lacked transparency. The levy had been linked to funding for the state’s 'Big Build' infrastructure projects, including the Suburban Rail Loop.

Carroll emphasized that while the government remains committed to improving public transport, the process for implementing such charges must be open and accountable. He noted that the decision to scrap the levy follows a review of how the charge was established. According to Carroll, the government plans to follow a formal cabinet process to finalize the abolition of the fee. He stated that Victorians deserve to know exactly how their money is being utilized for infrastructure projects. The government has not yet provided a specific timeline for when the levy will be officially removed from fares, but the announcement marks a shift in policy regarding how these transport projects are funded and communicated to the public.