VIC Offers Free Regional Transit Through May
V/Line provides free regional train and coach travel across Victoria through May 31
V/Line Offers Free Rides Through May 31
Victoria's V/Line is offering free travel on all train and coach services through May 31, transit officials said. The fare-free period applies to regional services across Victoria, including scheduled coaches and train replacement buses. Officials didn't specify whether the free service will be extended beyond May, though they said riders should still obtain valid tickets or eTickets even though fares aren't being collected.
Context & Background
V/Line operates regional public transport connecting communities across Victoria with both train and coach services, according to the transit agency. The fare-free initiative comes as coaches are currently replacing trains between Wyndham Vale and Waurn Ponds on the Geelong Line due to a rail equipment fault. Officials haven't said when normal train service will resume on that segment. Transit agencies occasionally offer fare-free periods to encourage ridership, address service disruptions, or support community access to transportation.
Key Details
Passengers must still have a valid eTicket or paper ticket to travel on scheduled coach services, even during the free fare period, officials said. Tickets can be purchased online, at staffed stations, or by calling 1800 800 007. Reservations are essential on many scheduled coach services and can be made up to three months in advance. The luggage limit for all V/Line services is 32 kg, consisting of two items plus one piece of hand luggage.
Timeline & Implementation
The free public transport offer is available now and runs until May 31, though officials haven't announced whether it'll be extended. Most scheduled V/Line coach services have a lift and allocated space for passengers with mobility aids. Officials said riders should continue to make reservations where required, even though fares aren't currently being collected.
Rider Impact & Moovit
Riders can take advantage of free travel across Victoria's regional network through the end of May, though they'll still need to obtain tickets and make reservations where required. Hot food and hot drinks aren't permitted on board V/Line coaches, but cold packaged food and cold drinks with lids are allowed. Only folding bicycles meeting specific size requirements can be taken on scheduled coaches, while pedal bicycles may be allowed on coach replacement services where space permits. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for V/Line services across Victoria.
