Tap and go is coming to train stations across Victoria as the state government rolls out the payment technology.
Works is under way to install 108 new myki readers at 37 V/Line stations that currently use a paper ticket or eTicket.
The readers are to switch on later this year, allowing bank (credit/debit) cards, phones and smartwatches to make payments (tap and go).
V/Line passengers will still be able to reserve a seat where available, the government says.
Passengers without a reservation can buy an unreserved fare at their station with tap and go.
Myki card holders can still use them while concession holders, seniors and under-18s can still use their concession or Youth myki.
TAKING TO TAP AND GO
Acting Minister for Public and Active Transport Ros Spence says Victorians “have taken to tap and go in a big way”.
“We’re bringing that same convenience to train stations across every corner of the state,” he says.
State MP for Ripon Martha Haylett says “no matter where your train journey begins or ends, you’ll soon be able to tap your phone, smartwatch or bank card to get where you need to go”.
The government says that Victorians made more than one million trips paying with a bank card or smart device since its launch last month across the myki rail and tram networks.
It says four in five of those trips were made using a phone or smartwatch.
The state government says the rollout will continue later this month with tap and go to expand to myki-enabled buses.
Half-price public transport fares will also remain in effect until January 1, 2027, the government says.
Full fares will be capped at $5.70 with concession fares at $2.85 during this time, Transport Victoria says.
V/Line is encouraging passengers to speak to any station staff or to call Transport Victoria’s contact centre on 1800 800 007 for information or help.
EARLIER V/LINE NEWS: Boosting rail freight capacity to take trucks off roads
