Victoria Offers Free Regional Transit Through May
V/Line provides fare-free train and coach services statewide until May 31
V/Line Offers Free Victoria Transit Through May 31
Victoria's V/Line is offering free public transport across the state through May 31, transit officials said. The fare-free period covers all train and coach services, including scheduled routes and replacement services. Passengers who've already purchased tickets for travel during this period can apply for refunds online or at staffed V/Line stations.
Free Transit Period Covers All Regional Services
The temporary fare elimination applies to V/Line's entire network of regional train and coach services throughout Victoria. Transit agencies occasionally implement fare-free periods during special circumstances or to encourage ridership, though officials didn't specify the reason for this particular initiative. The policy affects both regularly scheduled coach routes and train replacement bus services that operate when rail lines undergo maintenance or experience disruptions. Despite the free fares, passengers still need valid tickets for scheduled coach services.
Ticket Requirements and Reservation Rules
Valid eTickets or paper tickets remain required for scheduled coach services, even though they're free during this period. Passengers can obtain tickets online, at V/Line 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, officials said. The agency maintains a 32 kg total luggage limit consisting of two items plus one piece of hand luggage, with no single item exceeding 16 kg.
Service Rules and Accessibility Features
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. Hot food and hot drinks aren't permitted on V/Line coaches, but cold packaged food and cold drinks with lids are allowed. Animals aren't permitted unless they're certified service animals or have an Assistance Animal Pass. Most scheduled V/Line coach services feature lifts and allocated spaces for passengers with mobility aids.
Planning Travel During Free Fare Period
Riders planning to use V/Line services during the fare-free period should still obtain required tickets for scheduled coach routes, particularly those requiring advance reservations. Passengers can contact PTV at 1800 800 007 to discuss accessibility requirements before traveling. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for V/Line's regional train and coach network throughout Victoria.
