Statewide fare cuts and new payment options aim to ease cost-of-living pressures and improve accessibility

MELBOURNE, VICTORIA — Victoria has introduced a 50% fare reduction across all public transport services, a move that will halve travel costs for passengers statewide until 1 January 2027.

The discounted fares, announced by the state government, apply automatically to all services—including trains, trams, and buses—across the entire network. The concession applies to all passengers, including full-fare travellers, concession holders, and visitors.

“Half price fares apply automatically to all public transport services statewide and to all passengers, including concession holders,” the transport authority confirmed.

The fare reduction is designed to ease cost-of-living pressures and encourage more Victorians to use public transport. It comes at a time when household budgets are under strain and as the state continues its post-pandemic economic recovery.

Contactless Payment Rollout Expands

In a complementary move, the government has expanded contactless payment options across Victoria’s public transport network. The new system allows passengers to tap on and off using their bank card, smartphone, or wearable device.

Contactless payment is now available across the tram network and at train stations where myki is accepted. The system is designed to make travel easier and more convenient, particularly for visitors and occasional travellers who do not have a myki card.

However, the contactless option is currently available for full fare customers only.

Important Information for Concession Card Holders

Concession card holders have been advised to continue using their concession myki to ensure they are charged the correct fare. Tap-on with a phone or bank card will apply the full fare, and customers may be incorrectly charged.

“If you are a concession card holder and accidentally tap on with a phone or bank card, wait 30 seconds and tap off with the same device so you are not charged,” the transport authority advised.

Any customers who make a mistake and are incorrectly charged should contact the Transport Victoria Contact Centre on 1800 800 007 to discuss reimbursement options.

A Welcome Relief

The fare reduction has been widely welcomed by commuter groups and community organisations, who have described it as a meaningful intervention to support families and individuals.

A statement from the Public Transport Users Association described the move as a “welcome relief” for Victorian families, noting that half-price fares will make a meaningful difference to the weekly budgets of many households, particularly those who rely on public transport to get to work, school, and essential services.

The government has said that it remains committed to making public transport more accessible and affordable for all Victorians.

The half-price fares apply from now until 1 January 2027. For more information, visit the Transport Victoria website.