Victorian commuters will face increased public transport fares from 1 January 2025, as the Allan government confirmed adjustments to daily fare caps. The announcement, which outlines both the fare increases and free travel days during the holiday period, highlights changes across the state’s public transport network.
New Fare Structure From January 2025
From the beginning of the new year, the daily fare cap for public transport will rise to $11, up from the current $10.60. The weekend and public holiday daily cap will also increase, reaching $7.60 from $7.20. For concession card holders, the daily fare cap will rise by 20 cents to $5.50, with the weekend and public holiday concession cap increasing to $3.80.
The fare adjustments come as the state government seeks to address the costs of operating Victoria’s extensive public transport network. At present, fares contribute less than one-third of the total cost of running the system.
Regional Fare Cap Remains Unchanged
The regional fare cap, a popular initiative allowing travel anywhere in the state for the same price as a metropolitan daily fare, will remain unchanged. The cap has driven significant uptake, with over 39 million trips taken and $101 million saved by commuters since its introduction.
Free Public Transport During the Holiday Season
The government has also announced free travel days over the festive period, providing relief for commuters during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Free travel will be available on the following dates:
- From 3am Christmas Day to 3am Boxing Day
- From 6pm New Year’s Eve to 6am New Year’s Day
Travel on trams, buses, metro trains, and regional trains will be free during these times. For V/Line passengers, tickets for reserved services must still be booked, but will be issued free of charge. Regional bus passengers will not require a ticket.
Additionally, long-distance V/Line services arriving in Melbourne after 6pm on New Year’s Eve will offer free travel, and the first V/Line services departing Melbourne to all regional destinations on New Year’s Day will also be free, regardless of the departure time.
Public Reaction and Implications
While the fare increases are modest, they have sparked some concerns about affordability for regular commuters. However, the retention of the regional fare cap and the introduction of free travel days are aimed at offsetting the impact of the changes and encouraging broader public transport use.
These adjustments reflect the Allan government’s efforts to manage rising operational costs while maintaining public confidence in Victoria’s public transport system.
