VIC Extends Free Regional Rail Through May 2026

Victoria's V/Line regional trains and coaches remain fare-free until May 31, 2026

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V/Line Extends Free Rides Through May 2026

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Victoria's regional rail and coach riders won't pay fares through late May 2026 under an extension of V/Line's free public transport program. The state-run transit agency confirmed the fare-free period now runs until May 31, 2026, covering all train and coach services across Victoria. Passengers who've already purchased tickets for travel during the free period can request refunds, officials said.

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The extension continues a fare-free initiative that's allowed riders to travel without payment across V/Line's regional network. The agency operates train and coach services connecting Melbourne with regional centers including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, and Traralgon. Officials didn't specify the total cost of the extended free-fare period or provide ridership data showing how the program has affected passenger numbers. Transit agencies typically implement fare-free periods to boost ridership, support economic recovery, or during service disruptions, though the specific rationale for V/Line's extension wasn't detailed in available information.

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The fare-free service applies to all V/Line train routes and coach connections throughout Victoria's regional network. Passengers can travel without purchasing tickets for trips between Melbourne's Southern Cross station and destinations including Warrnambool, Ararat, Maryborough, Swan Hill, Echuca, Bairnsdale, Shepparton, and Albury. Officials said customers who've already bought tickets for travel dates now covered by the free period are eligible for refunds, though specific refund processing timelines and procedures weren't provided. The agency maintains its standard service schedules and routes during the fare-free period.

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The free-fare program runs through May 31, 2026, transit officials confirmed. Passengers can begin requesting refunds for existing bookings that fall within the extended fare-free period, though officials didn't announce when the refund process opens or how long processing will take. The agency typically processes ticket refunds through its customer service channels, including the V/Line app and staffed station locations across the network.

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Regional travelers can ride V/Line trains and coaches without payment through late May, eliminating fare costs for commuters and leisure riders across Victoria. The agency provides service updates through its mobile app, social media channels, and V/Line Inform notification system for delays of 15 minutes or more. Moovit offers real-time V/Line schedule information and service alerts to help riders plan trips across Victoria's regional rail network.