“Free” public transport will cost Victorians more than $300 million over four years

Ahead of Tuesday’s Budget, the State Government has revealed sweeping public transport changes that will benefit seniors and children.

According to AAP, the moves will cost the state $2.2 million over four years to expand free public transport for seniors on weekends and $318 million over four years to allow anyone under 18 to travel free on public transport.

From January 1 next year, Victorian Seniors Card holders who use public transport will be able to travel for free on weekends.

Previously, public transport was only free for seniors on weekends in any two neighbouring zones, meaning longer trips would often incur a fee.

Passengers with a Seniors myki will need to carry their Seniors Card while travelling and tap on and off as usual. However, their myki cards will not be charged.

Senior cardholders will continue to be eligible for a 50 percent discount off the full fare on weekdays.

Also on January 1, children under 18 will be able to travel for free after buying a $5 youth myki card. The card will remain valid until they turn 18.

Children must tap on and off using the youth myki as normal when entering or exiting a train, tram or bus.

A yearly student pass currently costs $755.

Children living in non-myki areas will also be eligible for free travel on all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and public coach services in metro, regional and rural areas.

Image Credit: Ryuno/Neal Jennings