Melbourne and VIC Extends Free Regional Travel
V/Line extends free regional train and coach travel across Victoria through May 2026
V/Line Extends Free Travel Until May 2026
Regional train and coach riders across Victoria won't pay fares through May 31, 2026, as V/Line extends its free travel period. The state's regional public transport service announced passengers don't need to tap on, purchase tickets, or make reservations on most train services during the extended period. Customers who've already bought tickets for travel during the free period can apply for refunds online or at staffed stations.
Context and Background
The free travel extension affects all V/Line train and coach services connecting regional Victoria to Melbourne and between regional centers. V/Line operates the state's regional rail network and coach services, serving communities across Victoria with connections to interstate destinations. While most train services don't require reservations during the free period, some scheduled coach services still require bookings at zero cost to manage capacity. The agency encourages passengers to plan ahead, arrive early, and travel outside peak periods where possible to ensure smooth journeys.
Key Details
Passengers don't need to tap myki cards or purchase any tickets through May 31, 2026, on V/Line services. The free travel applies to both full fare and concession passengers across the entire regional network. An interstate levy will apply for coach journeys starting or ending outside Victoria, except for services to Albury, Deniliquin, and Mount Gambier, which remain exempt. Passengers with accessibility needs are encouraged to contact V/Line in advance to ensure appropriate assistance is available at stations and on board services.
Timeline and Implementation
The free travel period runs through May 31, 2026, followed by a half-price fare period from June 1, 2026, until January 1, 2027. During the half-price period, full fare daily caps will drop from $11.40 to $5.70, while concession daily caps will fall from $5.70 to $2.85. The half-price discount applies to both full fare and concession passengers across V/Line services.
Rider Impact and Information
The extended free travel period eliminates fare costs for regional travelers through late May, potentially saving regular commuters hundreds of dollars. Passengers who've already purchased tickets can request refunds through V/Line's website or at staffed stations. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for V/Line train and coach services across Victoria's regional network.
