Free Weekend Public Transport in Victoria This Summer

Public transport is meant to be the budget way to get around—so why does it feel like every tap-on stings a little more these days? Luckily for us cheapskates, Victoria is introducing a new move this summer that will give your Myki (and your wallet) a well-deserved break.

From December through February, all trains, trams and buses will be free to ride on weekends across the state—leaving a little extra cashola in that happy hour fund. Here's everything you need to know to get the most bang for your buck this summer. 

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• What’s Changing: Free Public Transport Details
• When & Where the New Metro Tunnel Operates
• How This Affects Commuters & Tourists

What’s Changing: Free Public Transport Details

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The Victorian Government has introduced the weekend freebie rides as a way to say thank you to passengers, after years of Metro Tunnel works have disrupted regular travel schedules. The way it works is pretty simple: when the tunnel opens in early December, all weekend public transport will be free until 1 February. 

You won't need to tap on or off your Myki—but if that transport officer anxiety is sticking around, don't worry. Even if your natural reflexes kick in, you won't be charged for tapping your card. The deal includes all train, bus and tram travel, from the first service on Saturday morning to the last on Sunday night. 

Insider intel

• Travelling regional? Some V/Line services will still require reservations, but you won't have to pay to do so. 

When & Where the New Metro Tunnel Operates

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The new Metro Tunnel (Melbourne's biggest transport project in decades) is set to open in early December, in a limited capacity labelled the Summer Start. 

During this introductory phase, trains will run every 20min through the tunnel between 10am and 7pm on weekends, extending to East Pakenham every 40 minutes and Sunbury every 60 minutes. Weekday tunnel trains will also operate during off-peak hours (roughly 10am–3pm) to help test the network before full operation.

Insider intel

• Transport gates will stay open during the Summer Start period, with extra staff on hand to help travellers navigate the new Metro services. 

How This Affects Commuters & Tourists

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Whether you are trawling the daily commute, doing some sight-seeing, or even just bar-hopping, this is your cue to ditch the car and ride for free. 

After 1 February, services will transition into the Big Switch: a major timetable overhaul that will see the Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury lines stop using the City Loop and instead run exclusively through the new Metro Tunnel. Over 1,000 additional weekly services will be added across the network, easing congestion and cutting travel times across the city.

The Frankston line will return to the City Loop, while new interchange links at Flinders Street to Town Hall and Melbourne Central to State Library will make transfers quick and seamless. 

Insider intel

• While the big smoke certainly has lots to do, there's never been a better excuse to get out of town. We recommend jumping on the Sandringham line this summer for some of Melbourne's best beaches—you can hop off at Brighton Beach for the insta famous bathing boxes, or stick around 'til Sandringham for a quieter dip and a banging fish and chips on the sand. 

Check out Transport Victoria online for all the latest updates. 

Main image credit: Visit Melbourne | Instagram