The state government is experimenting with contactless payment options on four train lines, enabling passengers to use their credit or debit cards, smartphones, or smartwatches to tap in.
This pilot program is currently limited to full-fare travelers on the Craigieburn, Upfield, Ballarat, and Seymour lines, including trips to and from the City Loop.
However, those with concession fares will have to wait a bit longer to access this technology.
Participating stations will feature Myki readers marked with special artwork, indicating the availability of tap-and-go functionality.
There is a caveat: if your journey involves transferring to a train line not included in the trial, you will need to use a Myki card for that part of the trip.
Transport Victoria plans to roll out contactless payments across the entire train network following the completion of the trial, which is anticipated to conclude by the end of April.
Tap and go for trams and buses will be rolled out at a later date.
The aim of the trial is to iron out any teething problems as the government slowly makes the full switch to contactless payments and replace the state’s much-maligned Myki system.
Melbourne is among the last major metropolitan hubs in Australia to roll out contactless tap and go payments for public transport.
Buses and metro services in Brisbane began accepting contactless payment in 2024.
A new tap and go system was launched in the ACT in last 2024 too.
Adelaide’s metro, bus and tram network also made tap and go payment available in 2022.
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