Petition Public subsidy for the Searoad Ferries service between Sorrento and Queenscliff

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the need for a public subsidy for the Searoad Ferries service between Sorrento and Queenscliff. This service provides an important transport link between the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. However, the cost of travelling as a passenger or taking a vehicle on the ferry can make regular use of the service unaffordable for residents of both communities. There is currently no permanent Victorian Government-funded subsidy or concession to make regular passenger and vehicle travel on this route more affordable for local residents, compared with ferry services in New South Wales.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to investigate and establish a permanent government-funded public subsidy or concession for eligible residents of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas using passenger and vehicle services operated by Searoad Ferries between Sorrento and Queenscliff.