The Victorian Government has made a pair of public transport announcements ahead of the 2025/26 Victorian Budget.
From 1 January 2026, kids under 18 will travel for free with a new youth myki card, while Seniors Card holders will also have free public transport travel on weekends.
Minister for Public Transport Gabrielle Williams said this will save so many struggling families thousands of dollars a year.”
“Cheaper school runs, cheaper weekends at the footy – and one less thing for families to worry about,” she said.
“We’ve added hundreds more weekend services and now we’re making it free for seniors to travel on the weekend – making public transport an even better option, whether it’s for a trip to see family or to explore Victoria.”
The new youth myki can be used like any other myki, to tap on and travel through ticket gates at stations and when getting on a bus or tram. The card will stay valid until the child turns 18.
Children living in non-myki areas will also be eligible for free travel. The free travel will be available on all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro, regional and rural areas.
“Whether it’s travelling to the city, to regional Victoria or just around the corner to see family – we’re making it free for every child,” Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.
Passengers with a senior myki will need to carry their Seniors Card while travelling and use their Senior Myki to touch on and off as usual – but myki cards won’t be charged.
Cardholders will continue to be eligible for a 50 per cent discount off the full fare on weekdays.
To be eligible for a Seniors myki you must have a Victorian Seniors Card. Victorian Seniors Card holders must be permanent residents of Victoria, aged 60 or over and work less than 35 hours a week.
“Free public transport for every child, every day, everywhere, families are doing it tough and I’m on their side,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.
“Costs can add up – especially for seniors – and I’m on their side, that’s why we’re making public transport free on weekends for seniors, saving them more than $360 every year.”
