V/Line Adds ANZAC Day Service for Dawn Ceremony

V/Line adds extra trains and coaches for April 25 Dawn Service during fare-free period

V/Line Adds ANZAC Day Trains for Dawn Service

Victoria's V/Line will run extra trains and coaches on ANZAC Day to help riders reach Melbourne's Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance, transit officials said. The additional services operate Saturday, April 25, 2026, with the ceremony running from 5:30am to 6:30am. All V/Line services remain free through May 31 as part of the state's fare-free transit period.

Free Transit Period Continues Through May

The ANZAC Day service additions come during Victoria's extended fare-free public transport period, which covers all regional train and coach services until May 31. Transit agencies across Australia typically add early-morning services for ANZAC Day commemorations, which draw large crowds to dawn services in major cities. Passengers who'd already purchased tickets for travel during the free period can request refunds through V/Line's customer feedback form or at staffed stations. Officials didn't specify how many additional services will run or which routes will see expanded schedules.

Early Morning Services Target Ceremony Attendees

The extra services aim to accommodate travelers heading to the Melbourne Dawn Service, one of Victoria's largest ANZAC Day gatherings. Officials didn't release specific departure times for the additional trains and coaches or say how many extra services will operate. V/Line typically serves regional communities across Victoria with connections to Melbourne's central stations. The agency said it'll provide service details closer to the commemoration date, though a specific timeline for when that information will be available wasn't provided.

Service Details to Be Released Before April

V/Line plans to announce specific schedules and departure times for the ANZAC Day services in coming weeks, according to the transit agency. Officials said the additional services will ensure regional residents can attend the dawn ceremony and return home the same day. Passengers can contact V/Line at 1800 800 007 for service information, though detailed timetables for the April 25 commemoration weren't available by publication time.

Riders Can Plan Trips During Free Fare Period

Regional travelers attending ANZAC Day events won't need tickets during the fare-free period, which runs through the end of May. Officials said the extended free transit period helps riders access commemorations and other destinations across Victoria without fare barriers. Moovit provides real-time departure information and service alerts for V/Line trains and coaches throughout the regional network.