The Victorian Government has announced that starting next year, children under 18 will enjoy free travel on public transport across the state. The new Youth Myki card will enable young people to travel for free on trains, trams, buses, and coach services throughout Victoria. This benefit also extends to those living in areas where Myki cards are not used.
Speaking at a press event over the weekend, Premier Jacinta Allan described the initiative as a “great equaliser,” ensuring that “every child, everywhere across Victoria, can travel for free every single day.” This policy, costing $318 million over four years, aims to ease cost-of-living pressures and will benefit over one million children. According to the government, it will save families thousands of dollars annually.
Minister for Public Transport Gabrielle Williams highlighted the practical benefits, stating, “This means cheaper school commutes, more affordable weekends at the footy, and one less worry for families.”
Premier Jacinta Allan
The 2025-26 Victorian Budget, set to be presented to parliament on Tuesday, also includes free weekend travel for seniors, effective from 1 January 2026. Currently, seniors enjoy free weekend travel in neighbouring zones, but this will now expand to cover the entire state.
Premier Allan emphasized her support for seniors, saying, “Costs can add up, especially for seniors, and I’m on their side. That’s why we’re making public transport free on weekends, saving them over $360 each year.” The initiative is expected to boost tourism in regional Victoria and encourage more people to explore the state.
To access this benefit, seniors must hold a Victorian Seniors Card, available to permanent Victorian residents aged 60 or over who work less than 35 hours per week. While travelling, seniors need to carry their Seniors Card and use their Seniors Myki card to touch on and off, though no charges will apply. Seniors will also continue to receive a 50% discount on weekday fares.
The government anticipates increased public transport use, similar to Queensland’s experience after introducing 50-cent fares statewide in February 2025, following a successful six-month trial from August 5, 2024. During the trial, over 93.3 million trips were recorded, saving commuters more than $181 million. Public transport usage in Queensland rose by 18.3% compared to 2023, with regional areas seeing a 20% increase across 16 urban bus networks.
This initiative will provide significant financial relief for Nepalese families and seniors in Melbourne while promoting greater use of public transport. For more details, visit the Victorian Government’s website (vic.gov.au).
