V/Line passengers will soon have the option to transition from paper tickets to electronic alternatives.
The announcement of the electronic tickets (eTickets) comes after recent questioning about the arrival date of Myki ticketing systems to regional stations.
The system, which was announced in May 2023 and due to begin operating in 2024, will allow for more tap-and-go payment options, as well as the use of the existing Myki card.
In response to concerns voiced by State Member for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell about the lack of news on the integration of the Myki system so far, a Victorian Government spokesperson confirmed Myki was still “on track” for 2024, following a testing period set to begin before the end of the year.
While not Myki, the introduction of eTickets is a step in the right direction when it comes to ticket convenience.
From Wednesday, September 18, passengers booking long-distance train and coach services online can opt for convenient digital ticket delivery via SMS or email.
The tickets can then be added to an Apple or Google wallet, or downloaded as a PDF to be printed at home and taken along on the day, removing the need for an extra stop to a staffed station or mailbox.
Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams said the introduction of eTickets will help improve passenger experience on the increasingly popular services.
“Since the introduction of the regional fare cap, long-distance V/Line services have become more popular than ever before,” Mrs Williams said.
“We’re always looking for opportunities to improve the passenger experience, and electronic ticketing will make it easier for passengers to access and display their tickets for their long-distance train and scheduled coach services.”
The eTickets will work the same as a paper ticket and will cover additional travel on Victoria’s public transport network such as metropolitan trains, trams and buses.
Tickets will be available on V/Line scheduled coach services as well as the Albury, Ararat, Bairnsdale, Echuca, Maryborough, Shepparton, Swan Hill and Warrnambool train lines.
For those preferring traditional methods, tickets purchased online can still be collected from staffed V/Line stations, V/Line ticket agents, premium Metro stations, or receive them by post before travel.