General News
14 July, 2026
Tap-and-go public transport fares expand regionally after numerous delays
Tap-and-go fares are coming to every train station in Victoria by the end of the year.
Maryborough’s reliance on paper tickets will soon be over with tap-and-go payments coming to every train station in Victoria by the end of the year.
State Government have said works are underway to install 108 new myki readers across 37 V/Line stations which currently rely on paper or eTickets.
Locally, the upgrades include all stations on the lines beyond Ballarat and Wendouree.
It’s the latest step in the myki modernisation project, which aims to improve the state’s public transport, but has seen numerous delays and increased costs.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the tap-and-go system will make public transport more convenient.
“No matter where your train journey begins or ends, you’ll soon be able to tap your phone, smartwatch or bank card to get where you need to go,” she said.
Currently left out are those with a concession fare, including seniors and children, who will have to continue using their myki card.
The project’s timeline aims to launch tap-and-go concession fares next year.
Ms Haylett said the upgraded system brought the region’s train lines into the 21st century.
“It will make a huge difference ... feeling more connected to the rest of Victoria and having what they’ve had for so many years,” she said.
The announcement follows years of local advocacy for an improved ticket system.
Previously, the Central Goldfields Shire Council included Myki activation among their top advocacy priorities.
“I’m so happy we’re finally getting that,” Ms Haylett said.
Council have continued advocating for more frequent weekday train services between Maryborough and Ballarat.
“The current limited service of two trains a day on weekdays has not provided the necessary frequency for reliable commuting, convenience, and accessibility,” mayor Ben Green said in February.
“Council believes the service frequency should be increased to ensure Maryborough residents can travel to and from Ballarat more easily for study, work, and appointments.”
They’ve previously seen some success with additional weekend services added in December 2022.
Ms Haylett said advocating for more frequent trains was among her top priorities.
“Something I’m constantly banging down the door for the Minister of Transport Infrastructure about is that we need more train services on the Maryborough line,” she said.
“I really want to work very hard to get more train services.”