PUBLIC TRANSPORT, FREE WIRELESS INTERNET

Mr PICCOLO (Light) (14:40): My question is to the Minister for Transport Services. Can the minister inform the house about the trial of free wi-fi on our public transport system?

The Hon. C.C. FOX (Bright—Minister for Transport Services) (14:40): I thank the Member for Light, who is a very keen user of our public transport system. Free wi-fi will be provided on all Adelaide Metro trams and 20 buses as part of a 12-month trial on our public transport system. The first wi-fi connected bus went into service a few weeks ago and will be followed by the entire tram fleet and an additional 19 buses with wi-fi capability by January 2013.

It is exciting to be providing commuters with free wi-fi on their journey to and from work. The rollout of buses and trams with wi-fi capability comes alongside our recent public launch of the new smartcard ticketing system, Metrocard. These initiatives are about providing our commuters with a better public transport experience.

The free wi-fi trial is facilitated by APN Outdoor Pty Ltd as part of the public transport advertising contract awarded in May this year. The cost of providing wi-fi will be covered through advertising revenue and the commercial sponsoring of each wi-fi bus or tram.

Madam Speaker, 18 to 24 year olds, who account for almost half of Adelaide Metro commuters, will be amongst those to benefit most from the trial. Many of these commuters are students so, by providing free wi-fi, they will be able to catch up on study and download data at no cost to them. For other commuters, it will provide the perfect opportunity to catch up on the latest news and check emails, all before they get to work or reach their destination.

The trial will utilise 3G technology, with speeds expected to vary depending on the area and how many people are connecting at any given time. If this trial is successful, it will be extended across the entire Adelaide Metro fleet, including trains.