myki cards: Huge shake-up to how Melbourne residents use public transport, trains, trams and buses
Massive transport moves every Melbourne commuter should know: why myki cards are about to be a thing of the past
- Melbourne commuters will soon be able to use debit cards
- They can use smartphones to tap on and off
Melbourne commuters will be able to pay their public transport fares using mobile phones, debit or credit cards, the Victorian government has announced.
Myki cards are being phased out in favor of an online account-based system that allows commuters to use their devices such as smartphones or cards to pay for train, bus or tram fares.
US-based Conduent Business Services will acquire the system as part of a 15-year, $1.7 billion contract.
Trials begin next year and there will be a two-year transition period before the new system is rolled out statewide. The system will still be called myki, but means commuters will no longer need to carry physical cards.
Melbourne commuters will be able to pay their public transport fares using mobile phones, debit or credit cards, the Victorian government has announced
“This is a very important moment for Victoria and public transport,” said Transport Minister Ben Carroll on Monday.
‘We have had a card system under Myki for the past 16 years.
“We will now reach the 21st century with an account-based ticketing (that is) simpler and easier to use through your credit card, through your smartphone and through your smartwatch.
“This is a very big change for Melburnians and even Victorians.”
Myki cards lost favor with some commuters who were unable to tap on and off with their debit card or devices as is possible in other states and territories.
The myki app is only available on Android devices.