Under 18s to get free Victorian public transport next year

CHILDREN across Victoria will be able to travel for free on public transport from January 1, 2026, under a major cost-of-living measure announced in the 2025-26 Victorian budget.

The state government initiative will make all public transport free for people under the age of 18, with new youth myki cards available for a $5 fee.

A yearly student pass presently costs $755, meaning a family with three children could save more than $2,200 a year.

Public Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the policy would provide welcome relief for households under pressure.

“This will save so many struggling families thousands of dollars a year.

The free travel will apply across regional and metropolitan services, including V/Line trains and buses, and will be valid every day of the year.

Children in non-myki areas will also be eligible for the free travel.

It follows the Victorian government’s regional fare cap, which it says has saved Victorians more than $132 million since its introduction two years ago.

The new scheme will add to a suite of transport investments, including upgrades to regional lines and extra services on the Gippsland, Bendigo and Seymour routes.