The short answer is state government policy. Public Transport Victoria (PTV) eligibility rules currently define “students” as those enrolled in primary, secondary, or undergraduate tertiary courses (like Bachelors or Diplomas).

The Official Reasoning

The Victorian Government has historically argued that:

• The Health Care Card System: Domestic postgraduate students on a low income should apply for a Low Income Health Care Card through Centrelink. If you have this card, you can get a concession myki.
• Financial Independence: There is a long-standing (and often criticized) assumption that postgraduate students are more likely to have professional experience or part-time work to fund their travel compared to younger undergraduates.

The 2026 Reality for International Postgrads

If you are an international postgraduate student, the situation is even tougher. You are not eligible for a Health Care Card, and the International Student Travel Pass (which offers a 50% discount) is strictly reserved for undergraduate students.

3 Ways You Might Still Get a Discount

While the standard “Student Concession” is blocked, check if you fall into these categories:

1. The Low Income Health Care Card (Domestic Only)

If you are a domestic student earning below a certain threshold (roughly $700–$800 per week in 2026), you can apply for this card. Once granted, you can buy a Concession myki and pay 50% fares.

2. University-Specific Travel Grants

Some institutions, like the University of Melbourne, offer “Student Travel Awards” or emergency financial aid. These aren’t myki discounts, but they can provide up to $3,000 for travel related to conferences or research placements. Check your specific faculty’s “Scholarships and Grants” page.

3. The “Commuter Club” (Through Your Employer)

If you work part-time while studying, check if your employer is part of the PTV Commuter Club. This allows employees to buy a yearly myki pass at a 10% discount through payroll deductions.

The “Fares Fair” Movement

There is ongoing advocacy from groups like the Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations (CAPA) to change these rules. In 2026, many students are signing petitions to bring Victoria in line with states like NSW and QLD, which offer at least partial concessions to postgraduates.

• Pro-Tip: If you are a PhD or Masters by Research student traveling for a specific placement or internship, ask your university if they can issue a “Clinical Placement” travel letter, which occasionally grants temporary concession access for that specific period.