MELBOURNE: A lively meeting of nearly 300 people determined to oppose plans to privatise Victoria's public transport system. The meeting, organised by the Coalition on Public Transport (COPT) was told that experience with comparable systems shows that privatisation leads to service cuts and reductions, staff losses, the rundown of infrastructure, fare increases and higher government subsidies.

There was unanimous agreement that: Victoria needs an improved, viable and attractive public transport system which can only be attained through government ownership and a commitment to upgrade the system, with the social benefits that will engender; and that zoned tickets should be retained.

The meeting also agreed to support any industrial action taken by the Public Transport Union or other related unions as an important part of the fight against the privatisation of public transport.

A campaign will be launched and will immediately begin organising a mass rally to increase involvement and make a visible statement of the strength of opposition to the sell-off. The meeting was well attended by 200 -300 people.

Other issues raised included the massive problems which will arise from the proposed carve-up of the tram system, the future of conductors.

A blind and wheelchair bound man asked how he would be able to board public transport, how he would show his pass to a ticket machine, and how would he know when he'd reached his destination.

It was agreed that there was a swell in public support and that PTU secretary, Peter Bourke's comment that if there is enough public and member support he will fight privatisation industrially would be welcomed by the community.