Fare evasion by young people in New South Wales: Time to decriminalise?

Fines for fare evasion are the most commonly issued penalties to young people in New South Wales (NSW). Public transport is fundamental to a young person’s growing independence as well as to access education, employment and maintain social ties. This article reports on high volumes of fines issued to young people up to the age of 25 for fare evasion in NSW and patterns of fine issuance by police and transit officers. Too many young people are still punished for their inability to pay for fares. We advocate for reform that would ensure young people in NSW have access to free public transport.