Public transport will remain free across Victoria for another month, then fares will drop to half price for the rest of the year—helping ease pressure on household budgets and encouraging more people to leave the car at home.
The extension means Victorians can keep riding trains, trams and buses without paying until the end of May, before half-price fares come into effect from 1st June 2026.
The decision comes as fuel prices remain elevated and cost-of-living pressures continue to bite. By keeping public transport free a little longer, the government says the aim is to give commuters a practical saving while also reducing demand on the roads and at the pump.
What Are The Changes
The government has set aside $432 million for the extended free travel period and the half-price fares that will follow. Under the new arrangement, a full daily fare will drop from $11.40 to $5.70, and Myki pass holders will be eligible for reimbursements.
The free travel rules stay the same: they let you ride trains, trams, and buses for free, but they exclude airport buses, ferries, and privately run services. You’ll need to keep your trips within Victoria, except for a few places like Albury, Mount Gambier, and Deniliquin.
Why It Matters
The extension has already coincided with a lift in public transport use, with more Victorians reportedly choosing the network over the car. The government also says road use in metro areas has been easing slightly, suggesting some commuters are adjusting their routines in response to the cheaper fares.
For regular travellers, the change means a longer run of free commuting followed by a cheaper-than-usual fare period through the rest of the year. It’s a simple message with an easy appeal. This means less pressure at the pump, and a bit more breathing room in the weekly budget.
Tips For Public Transport Users
The system won’t charge you if you accidentally tap on with Myki during the free period, and it will adjust any existing passes accordingly. From 1st June, the Myki tap-and-go trial can also resume as the network shifts into the half-price phase.
For Melbourne readers, the brief version is pretty standard: April and May are free, and from winter onwards, public transport becomes a lot cheaper than usual.