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Melbourne Ditches Myki for Contactless Payments

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ourne-ditches-myki-for-contactless-payments.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 3:19 GMT by 7NEWS
      Locales: Victoria, AUSTRALIA

Melbourne, Australia - February 18th, 2026 - In a move hailed as a long-overdue modernization, the Victorian government is officially rolling out contactless payment options across its entire public transport network. Passengers will soon be able to tap and go using credit and debit cards, mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, and other compatible devices, eliminating the need for traditional ticketing systems like the Myki card. The phased implementation, beginning with Melbourne's trains and trams, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with expansion to buses and regional services planned thereafter.

This shift represents a significant upgrade to a system that has, for years, lagged behind global standards. While the Myki card served its purpose, its complexity and occasional malfunctions have been a source of frustration for commuters. The announcement, made earlier today by Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacqueline Symes, confirms a project that began with a successful trial on the Frankston line in 2025. The trial period proved invaluable, allowing the government to refine the technology and address potential issues before a wider rollout.

"Contactless payments are the standard now - it's what people expect, particularly when they're travelling in other major cities around the world," Minister Symes stated. "Victorians deserve a public transport system that is convenient, efficient, and on par with the best in the world. This is a significant step towards achieving that goal."

The implementation will involve the installation of new contactless payment terminals at all train stations, tram stops, and on buses. The system is designed to be incredibly user-friendly: passengers simply tap their card or device at the terminal upon boarding and again when disembarking, with fares calculated automatically. The government has assured the public that the system will be integrated with existing fare capping mechanisms, ensuring that passengers aren't overcharged and benefit from daily or weekly fare limits.

Beyond convenience, the contactless system is expected to yield several benefits. Reduced queuing times at ticket machines and increased boarding speeds will improve the overall flow of passengers, particularly during peak hours. The system will also generate valuable data on travel patterns, allowing the government to better understand passenger needs and optimize transport services. This data-driven approach could lead to more efficient route planning, improved frequency of services, and targeted investments in infrastructure.

However, the transition isn't without its challenges. Ensuring a smooth transition for concession card holders is a top priority. The government has pledged that existing Myki cards will remain valid for the foreseeable future, providing a seamless experience for those who prefer to continue using them. Furthermore, dedicated support channels will be established to assist passengers with any questions or issues they may encounter during the rollout. Concerns have also been raised regarding potential cybersecurity risks associated with contactless payment systems, and the government has emphasized that robust security measures are in place to protect passenger data.

The decision to adopt contactless payments aligns with a global trend towards simplified and integrated ticketing systems. Cities like London, New York, and Singapore have already successfully implemented similar technologies, demonstrating their effectiveness and popularity. The move is also expected to boost tourism, making it easier for visitors to navigate Melbourne's public transport network.

The extension of the system to regional Victoria is particularly significant, as it will improve connectivity for residents in outer areas and encourage greater use of public transport. This could have a positive impact on reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting economic growth in regional communities. Future phases of the project may explore integration with other transport modes, such as ferries and ride-sharing services, creating a truly seamless and integrated transport experience.

The long-term vision is to create a public transport system that is not only convenient and efficient but also sustainable and equitable. Contactless payments are just one piece of the puzzle, but it's a crucial step towards building a world-class transport network for Victoria.