After years of anticipation, Melbourne’s public transport system has officially introduced contactless “Tap and Go” payments, allowing passengers to use bank cards or smart devices instead of the traditional Myki card.
This is considered one of the most significant upgrades to Victoria’s public transport system in nearly a decade, marking a major step forward in modernizing the commuting experience.
Easy payments without a Myki card
With this new system, passengers no longer need to top up or carry a Myki card. Instead, they can pay directly using:
- Visa or Mastercard
- Smartphones with Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Smartwatches with contactless payment support
Users simply tap on and tap off, and the system will automatically calculate the fare.
Phased rollout
From June 8, 2026, the system has been introduced on the following lines:
- Cranbourne – Pakenham
- Frankston
- Stony Point
- Sandringham
- Sunbury
- Werribee
- Williamstown
As well as V/Line services including:
- Geelong
- Bendigo
- Gippsland
From June 14, 2026, additional lines include:
- Belgrave
- Lilydale
- Glen Waverley
- Alamein
- Mernda
- Hurstbridge
Positive response with some limitations
Trial data from March 2026 recorded over 88,500 Tap and Go transactions, with around 80% of users choosing to pay via smartphones or smartwatches.
However, the system currently only applies to full-fare adult tickets. Students, seniors, and Health Care Card holders must still use concession Myki cards to access discounted fares.
Additionally, buses and trams in Melbourne do not yet support Tap and Go payments.
A step forward in transport modernization
Although introduced later than in Sydney, Tap and Go is still seen as a major advancement, simplifying fare payments and improving the overall public transport experience in Melbourne.
In the future, the system is expected to expand further, moving toward a more convenient and modern transport network.
Source: Guardian Australia
