The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien is calling for clarity from the Allan Labor Government as families across Gippsland prepare for upcoming changes to public transport fares for children from 1 January 2026.
Under the newly announced scheme, children under 17 will be able to travel free on Victorian public transport. However, Mr O’Brien says key details remain unclear, particularly for regional families who rely heavily on the V/Line network.
“I understand that to access the free travel, every child aged over four will require a youth myki, even on V/Line services where myki cards are typically not accepted,” Mr O’Brien said.
“A youth myki is not the same as the existing child myki card, and those currently using a child card will have to apply for a completely new card.”
Youth myki cards come with a one-off $5 fee and at present can only be purchased online.
Mr O’Brien has raised questions about how the system will function on unmanned V/Line stations, which make up a significant portion of the Gippsland rail network.
“The Allan Labor Government is yet to explain how the youth myki cards will be checked or activated at the many stations across Gippsland that don’t have staff or myki ticketing facilities,” he said.
“As usual, Gippslanders, particularly those east of Traralgon, appear to be an afterthought in the rollout.”
Mr O’Brien said that while any initiative aimed at easing the cost of living for families is welcome in principle, the Allan Labor Government must be upfront about the practical challenges and ensure Gippslanders are not left behind.
“Once again, the headline announcement looks good, but the details are lacking.”
Families can apply for a Youth myki card online now at https://transport.vic.gov.au/manage-myki, with cards posted directly once processed.