Testing of tap-and-go technology on Victoria’s public transport system is set to reach its final stage over the next few months. The Victorian government has announced that users will soon be able to pay for travel without a myki card, aiming for implementation in the early part of this year.
The introduction of ticketless travel was a key component of the contract awarded to Conduent, a US-French company, when it took over the myki system in 2023. However, the rollout has faced delays, leading to criticisms that Victoria’s public transport payment system lags behind other Australian cities.
Final Testing Phase Begins
Victorians will soon have the option to pay for public transport using a credit card or smartphone, as the contactless payment trial enters its final stages. The government has confirmed that controlled laboratory testing involving a variety of bank cards and smart devices will commence next month. This will be followed by public trials at select train stations, with a full network rollout expected soon after.
This initiative will align Victoria with states like New South Wales and Queensland, where tap-and-go systems are already operational. Public Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams emphasized the importance of these trials, stating, “This is a critical next step in rolling out tap and go payments, allowing us to test the technology in real-world conditions and make sure the system works smoothly before it’s switched on for passengers.”
“In the coming months, passengers will be able to touch on using a credit or debit card, a smartphone, or a smartwatch — starting on trains, then rolling out across the rest of the network.”
Infrastructure and Industry Reactions
In preparation for the transition to contactless travel, nearly 3,000 new ticket readers have been installed at over 280 train stations. Despite these advancements, the project has not been without its detractors. A six-month trial conducted in Wangaratta in 2025 on four bus routes was dismissed by some industry insiders as a “gimmick,” with critics arguing that tap-and-go systems are already commonplace in many areas.
One insider remarked, “This really isn’t testing anything,” highlighting the widespread use of similar payment technologies in other sectors. The modernization of Victoria’s public transport ticketing system has been under scrutiny, with the awarding of the contract to Conduent sparking controversy over its international track record in delivering tap-and-go solutions.
Challenges and Future Prospects
The Victorian government faced criticism in 2023 for rejecting a proposed credit card tap-on technology trial for myki, after documents revealed the trial was ready to proceed. This decision, coupled with the delays in implementing the new system, has raised questions about the state’s commitment to modernizing its public transport infrastructure.
As the final testing phase begins, the government remains optimistic about the benefits of the new system. The move is expected to enhance convenience for commuters, reduce the need for physical tickets, and streamline the fare collection process. However, the success of the initiative will depend on the outcomes of the upcoming trials and the ability to address any technical challenges that may arise.
Looking forward, the introduction of a ticketless system in Victoria represents a significant step towards modernizing public transport. As the state prepares to join others in offering contactless payment options, the focus will remain on ensuring a smooth transition for passengers and addressing any lingering concerns from stakeholders.
