The 2026 Rules: How to Access Free Travel
1. The New “Youth myki” Card
To access free travel, you no longer use a “Child myki.” You must have the new Youth myki card, which was launched specifically for this program.
- Cost: The card costs $5.00 to purchase (available online or at staffed stations).
- Usage: Even though travel is free, you must still touch on and touch off your Youth myki at every gate and on every bus. This validates your right to be on the service and provides the government with data to keep the program running.
- Proof of Age: If you are 17 or 18 (and haven’t had your 18th birthday yet), you should carry a copy of your passport or a Victorian Proof of Age card to show Authorized Officers if asked.
2. Where Can You Go?
The “Free Under 18” policy is state-wide. You can use your Youth myki for $0 fares to:
- All Metropolitan Services: Any train, tram, or bus in Melbourne.
- All V/Line Commuter Lines: To Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Seymour, and Traralgon.
- Long-Distance V/Line & Coaches: You can travel all the way to the border (e.g., Albury, Mildura, or Bairnsdale).
- Note: For long-distance coaches that require a seat reservation, you must still “book” your seat at a staffed station, but the ticket cost will be $0.
3. Special Alert: Free April 2026
If you are traveling right now (April 2026), the Victorian Government has declared a Free Travel Month for everyone due to the Metro Tunnel opening celebrations.
- During April: You don’t even need to touch on your myki. The gates will be open.
- From May 1: Normal rules resume, and you must go back to using your Youth myki and touching on/off to maintain your free status.
Key Comparison: 2025 vs. 2026
| Feature | 2025 Rules | 2026 Rules |
| Cost for Under 18s | 50% Concession Fare | $0 (FREE) |
| Card Type | Child myki | Youth myki |
| Regional V/Line | Paid Concession | $0 (FREE) |
| Daily Cap | ~$5.30 | $0 |
A Quick Warning for 18-Year-Olds
The moment you turn 18, the “Youth myki” expires and will no longer work. On your 18th birthday, you must switch to an International Student Travel Pass (50% discount) or a standard Full Fare myki to avoid heavy fines.
