The continued slide of patronage on Brisbane's public transport network has been identified as a core issue facing the Newman government as TransLink's annual report reveals the scope of the system's problems.

Figures in the report, tabled in Parliament this week, show 300,000 less people used the TransLink network last financial year compared with 2010-2011, with patronage down 7.7 million trips on the 186 million target set by the previous Bligh administration.

Figures show 300,000 less people used the TransLink network last financial year compared with 2010-2011. Credit:Michelle Smith

Last year's four-year low of 178.3 million trips was 3.5 million less than number of passengers recorded in 2009-10, with the most recent decrease blamed on a contraction in demand brought about by delays in the delivery of major transport projects and fare increases.

In January this year, fares went up by 15 per cent for the third time in three years to help fund an extra 140,000 bus seats, though then Transport Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk moved to soften the blow by offering free travel for commuters after they took 10 journeys in any one week.