VIC V/Line Offers Free Regional Rides Through May
V/Line waives fares on all regional trains and coaches across Victoria until 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 all regional routes across Victoria, including scheduled coach services and train replacement buses. Passengers won't need to purchase tickets during this time, though reservations remain required on many coach services.
Context & Background
The free fare initiative covers V/Line's entire regional network, which operates both train and coach services connecting communities across Victoria. Transit officials said the program aims to encourage ridership and provide relief to regional travelers. The agency didn't specify whether the free fare period might be extended beyond May 31. V/Line typically requires valid eTickets or paper tickets for travel, which can be purchased online, at staffed stations, or by calling 1800 800 007.
Key Details
While fares are waived, other service policies remain in effect. Reservations are still essential on many scheduled coach services and can be made up to three months in advance, officials said. The total luggage limit stays at 32 kg, consisting of two items plus one piece of hand luggage. Only folding bicycles meeting specific size requirements can be taken on scheduled coaches, though pedal bicycles may be allowed on coach replacement services where space permits. Hot food and hot drinks aren't permitted on board, but cold packaged food and cold drinks with lids are allowed.
Timeline & Implementation
The free fare period runs through May 31, though officials haven't said whether they'll announce an extension before that date. Currently, coaches are replacing trains between Wyndham Vale and Waurn Ponds on the Geelong Line due to a rail equipment fault, and those replacement services are also included in the free fare program. Officials didn't provide a timeline for when regular train service will resume on that segment.
Rider Impact & Moovit
Regional travelers can take advantage of free V/Line service for trips across Victoria through the end of May, though they'll still need to make reservations on coach services that require them. Most scheduled coach services have a lift and allocated space for passengers with mobility aids. Animals aren't permitted unless they're certified service animals or have an Assistance Animal Pass. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for V/Line routes across Victoria.
