VIC Transit Adds Virtual Station Tours
V/Line launches virtual tours of stations across five regional networks in Victoria
V/Line Adds Virtual Station Tours for Riders
V/Line passengers can now explore station layouts and accessibility features before they travel through new virtual tours launched by Victoria's regional transit agency. The digital tool lets riders navigate popular stations across the network from their computers, transit officials said. The tours cover stations on five main line networks serving destinations from Geelong to Gippsland, though officials didn't specify exactly how many stations are included in the initial rollout.
Context
The virtual tours aim to help passengers identify accessible routes, amenities, and station features before arriving, according to the transit agency. V/Line operates regional train and coach services across Victoria, connecting rural communities to Melbourne and other regional centers. Officials said the tours require a modern web browser to access, with Internet Explorer not supported. The initiative is part of V/Line's broader commitment to improving accessibility information and working toward Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2 Level AA compliance.
Coverage Details
The virtual station tours span V/Line's five main line networks: Geelong & Warrnambool, Ballarat, Ararat & Maryborough, Bendigo, Echuca & Swan Hill, Seymour, Shepparton & Albury, and Gippsland & Bairnsdale. Officials said the tours focus on the most popular stations across these lines but haven't released a complete list of which specific stations are available. Passengers can access the tours through V/Line's website to view station layouts, locate accessibility features, and identify available amenities. The agency said riders needing accessible versions of website content can contact V/Line at wcag.accessibility@vline.com.au or call 1800 800 007.
Implementation
The virtual tours are available now through V/Line's website, officials confirmed. The launch coincides with Victoria's free public transport period running until May 31, which includes all V/Line train and coach services. Passengers who've already purchased tickets during the free travel period can request refunds online through the customer feedback form or at staffed stations. Officials didn't provide details on whether additional stations will be added to the virtual tour program or a timeline for expanding coverage.
Rider Impact
The virtual tours give passengers a way to plan their station navigation in advance, particularly helpful for riders with mobility needs or those unfamiliar with specific stations. Officials said the tool provides information on accessible routes, amenities, and station layouts before travel. Riders can access current service information and trip planning tools through Moovit, which provides real-time updates for V/Line's regional train and coach network across Victoria.
