New to Melbourne and need some help navigating our public transport system? Here is a quick guide on how to get from A to B.
myki
Your ticket to Melbourne’s public transport system is myki: a reloadable, credit-card-sized smart card/ticket that you can use on most public transport services in Melbourne and wider Victoria.
To buy your myki, simply visit any train station and head to the ticket office, or use one of the self-service myki machines. You can also purchase and top up your myki at any 7-11 store. Ensure you load your myki with enough money for your travel — you can find out more on fares and annual passes here. When you are ready to commute, simply tap your card on the myki reader at your station or on your tram or bus. Then, tap off when you disembark. Make sure to carry your myki at all times as fines for fare evading can be expensive.
If you are an international student, you may like to consider the myki iUse Pass which allows eligible international students to purchase an annual myki with a 50% discount. This is a cost-effective option for those who use public transport most days. To find out more, visit your local International Student Centre or email the International Student Services Team via: internationalstudentassist@holmesglen.edu.au
Public Transport Victoria
Now that you have your myki, you can use Melbourne’s metropolitan network of trains, trams and buses. To make your life even easier, Public Transport Victoria (PTV) has a handy app with a journey planning function. Simply type in your current location and your desired destination, and the app will provide instructions on the quickest way to get there using public transport!
Free Tram Zone
Take advantage of Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone when you are in the city. It spans over Spring Street, Flinders Street and La Trobe Street. This zone also extends along Victoria Street, William Street and Elizabeth Street that surrounds the Queen Victoria Market. To get your bearings around our Central Business District (CBD), consider taking a ride on the free City Circle tram — a heritage W-Class tram that travels past some of Melbourne’s major attractions and provides commentary.
Safety on Public Transport
It is your right to reach your destination via public transport safely and comfortably. To avoid incurring fines remember: do not place your feet on seats, consume alcohol, use indecent or inappropriate language, force doors, litter or smoke (including e-cigarettes). If you witness an emergency, accident, offence or act of vandalism while using Victoria’s public transport network please report it to Emergency Assistance by calling 000, or 131 444 for non-urgent crimes. Remember, Public Safety Officers (PSOs) often patrol our train stations and can assist you.
For further information on public transport, visit: www.ptv.vic.gov.au