As of June 1, free public transport in Victoria is done. Two months of riding trains, trams and buses without touching your myki balance — and now that window has closed. But before you start dreading your commute costs, it’s worth actually looking at the numbers. Because what’s replaced it is still pretty good.
From today until January 1, 2027, public transport is half price across the state, for everyone, every day.
When did free public transport end in Victoria?
The free travel period ran from March 31 through to May 31, 2026, covering Melbourne’s trains, trams and buses, as well as regional trains, coaches and buses. It was introduced as an emergency response to the global fuel crisis triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran, which sent petrol prices surging across Australia. Disruption to key shipping routes pushed oil prices higher, with flow-on effects felt right across Victorian businesses and households.
Victoria’s own fuel situation made things worse. The Viva Energy Geelong refinery — which supplies more than half of Victoria’s fuel and around 10% nationally — has been operating below full capacity. Premier Jacinta Allan’s response has been a two-part relief package: public transport fares cut in half, and a 20% rebate on car registration for eligible vehicle owners, claimable through the Service Victoria app until July 31.
The free period is over. But fares haven’t snapped back to normal.
What are the new fares from June 1, 2026?
The maximum full fare daily cap has dropped from $11.40 to $5.70. Concession fares have fallen from $5.70 to $2.85.
No action required on your end. Just tap on as usual and the fare will automatically calculate at half price.
Early Bird travel on metropolitan trains also remains free during the half-price period, provided you tap on and off before 7am.
Who is eligible?
Everyone. The discount applies to full fare passengers and concession holders alike — including students and seniors, whose already discounted fares are being cut in half again. Free travel remains permanently in place for under-18s and eligible special pass holders. Nothing changes for that group.
Which services are included — and which aren’t?
The discount covers all metropolitan trains, trams and buses, plus regional trains, coaches and buses, including intertown and regional town services. It does not apply to SkyBus, ferries, or non-subsidised regional bus services.
I had a myki Pass during the free period. What happens to it?
For customers who held a valid myki Pass during the April-May free travel period, there are options to receive extended benefits depending on your pass type. The details vary, so check transport.vic.gov.au to find what applies to you. If you had already booked V/Line travel for after June 1, you can apply for a partial refund via the customer feedback form at vline.com.au/contact-us, or visit a staffed station.
Can I now use a credit card instead of myki?
Getting closer. Tap-and-go ticketing trials are resuming in June on selected train lines, before a broader rollout across the myki train network. For now, most passengers should stick with myki or Mobile myki unless tap-and-go is confirmed on their specific line.
How much will I actually save?
The government estimates the average commuter will save more than $850 across the six months. That’s based on regular daily travel through to January 1. Occasional travellers will save less, but anyone catching a train, tram or bus a few times a week will feel the difference.
Is there a rego rebate too?
Yes. Eligible vehicle owners who paid registration between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026 for a light vehicle for personal use can claim a 20% rebate through the Service Victoria app. You can claim for up to two vehicles in your name. Applications are open until July 31, 2026.
How long does half-price public transport last?
The discount runs until January 1, 2027. What comes after that hasn’t been announced. The Victorian Budget 2026-27 has set aside $432 million to fund both the extended free travel period and the subsequent fare reductions — so this isn’t an accidental bargain. It’s a deliberate spend. Whether that goodwill extends into the new year is another question entirely.
For myki Pass extension options, visit transport.vic.gov.au. To claim your rego rebate, head to service.vic.gov.au/rego-rebate.
