Request for information: 

"Therefore, in light of this and what appears to be a rather profitable scheme, I request: 

1. The number and value of CHILDREN monthly pass purchases in the last 5 years BEFORE the introduction of the new "tap system" (i.e., paper tickets) broken down by financial year and each travel route (displayed monthly by number and $ value) 

2. The number and value of fines issued to CHILDREN monthly pass holders in the last 5 years BEFORE the introduction of the new "tap system" (i.e., paper tickets) broken down by financial year and each travel route (displayed monthly by number and $ value) 

3. The official start date of each route to the new "tap system" 

4. the number and value of CHILDREN monthly pass purchases SINCE the introduction of the new "tap system" (i.e., paperless/Snapper) broken down by financial year and each travel route (displayed monthly by number and $ value) 

Note: please report the values BEFORE deducting any refunds or credits applied

You have 20 working days to provide me with the data requested and I reserve the right to share my findings with the media and other government entities." 

On 1 August 2023, a Metlink Officer requested further clarification regarding your request to which you responded with the following: 

"I am seeking information on the Snapper on Rail network only (all routes) with a focus on the impact of the Snapper system on Child monthly ticket holders. I am particularly concerned about the fines and penalties that may be imposed on the Child monthly ticket holders if they fail to tag on or off with their Snapper cards. Although I have personal experience with the Johnsonville Line - and personally watched these exact scenarios play out - I would like to know if this is a widespread issue across all routes or if there are any variations or exemptions.

I am also curious about the rationale behind the implementation of the Snapper system and how it compares to the previous ticketing system - which did not require an additional step or impose penalties for Month ticketholders (especially children) to use the train. I am wondering how the "new system" ultimately affects the convenience and affordability of public transport for Child monthly ticket holders. 

Thank you for your cooperation - if the data is not in a format that is easy to consume, feel free to send as is, and I will transform the data."