Free Wi-Fi trial on Transperth services

A trial is underway to provide free Wi-Fi on Transperth public transport services in WA.

It will be the first time that free Wi-Fi has been made available on Perth’s buses and trains.

The trial will take place at the Subiaco and Elizabeth Quay train stations, as well as onboard two buses predominantly operating on the high-frequency Route 950.

The technology will then be rolled out on two trains operating on the Joondalup and Mandurah Lines later this year.

"As the McGowan government continues to progress METRONET, we are looking at other measures that could attract more people to public transport," said Transport Minister Rita Saffioti.

"I am pleased to announce that this trial can now begin after a lengthy period of negotiations.

"The Transperth PSM shows passengers are already very happy with their services, but this is something the government was keen to trial to see if we could further improve the passenger experience.

"I would urge anyone who has used the system to contact Transperth with their feedback."

Areas where Wi-Fi is available will be clearly marked with signage. Passengers are encouraged to submit feedback about their experience through the Transperth website.

Passengers are able to use up to 150 MB per device in a 24-hour period.

The technology is being delivered by Optus and the contract arrangement allows for the trial to proceed with no direct costs to the state government.

The results of the trial will be assessed to determine whether the system is rolled out more widely.

Meanwhile, the McGowan government has also invested $33.8 million towards upgrading Transperth's SmartRider system to cater for future patronage growth expected as part of METRONET and to accommodate advances in technology.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Kaspars Grinvalds

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