Geelong trains enter tap-and-go era

GEELONG train passengers can now leave their myki card at home, with the state’s tap-and-go ticketing system rolling out across the Geelong line.

Passengers can now tap on and off using a bank card, smartphone or smartwatch at myki-enabled stations, following a successful trial on several metropolitan and regional rail routes.

The change currently applies only to full-fare travellers, with concession passengers, seniors and people under 18 still required to use their concession or youth myki cards.

The Geelong line is among the first regional services to receive the technology as the state government expands the system across Victoria’s rail network following a successful trial.

More than 88,500 tap-and-go trips have been recorded since trials began in March, with four out of five journeys made using a phone or smartwatch.

Public transport minister Gabrielle Williams said the new ticketing system would make public transport simpler and more convenient for passengers.

“Tap and go means one less card in your wallet and one less thing to worry about on your journey,” she said.

Myki will remain available for passengers who prefer to use it.

The next stage of the rollout, which will extend tap and go to trams and buses, is expected to be announced in coming weeks.

Half-price public transport fares remain in place until the end of the year.