Over the weekend, the Victorian government announced that children will be able to travel on public transport for free. This will kick in for travellers under the age of 18 from January 1, 2026, saving families up to $755 a year per child. Children will get to travel with a new youth myki, which will stay valid until they turn 18. Young travellers living in non-myki areas will also get to travel for free.
“This will save so many struggling families thousands of dollars a year,” said Minister for Public Transport Gabrielle Williams. “Cheaper school runs, cheaper weekends at the footy – and one less thing for families to worry about.”
Free public transport for children
Over one million Victorian children and their families are expected to benefit from this system.
The new youth myki will be used like any other myki. Simply tap on and travel through the ticket gate at the train station, or when getting on a bus or a tram. Free travel for children will be available all across Victoria’s public transport system, including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro, regional and rural areas. The new youth myki will roll out from January 1, 2026.
Similarly, seniors across the state will also be able to travel for free on weekends. Seniors can currently travel for free on weekends in neighbouring zones, allowing for short trips. But from January 1, 2026, they will be able to catch public transport for free across the whole network. Travellers will need to carry their Seniors Card and use their Senior Myki on their journey.