Thursday 3 March

From Saturday 12 March passengers are reminded that public transport fares across Victoria will change.

V/Line train and coach fares will rise by an average of 3.1 per cent, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

In Melbourne, Metcard and myki fares will also increase.

Some fares, however, will not change. Passengers who use regional town buses will continue to pay the same price for their ticket.

In Melbourne, the Seniors 5 x Daily Metcard and Seniors Daily myki cap, and the 5 x Weekend Daily Metcard and myki $3 per day weekend and public holiday cap will also remain the same.

Regional Transit Student Passes will continue to be available for student pass fares.

Information and application forms are available from staffed V/Line stations, V/Line ticket agents or by calling 136 196 from 6am until midnight daily.

Despite the increase, V/Line fares are still cheaper than 2003 prices following a 20 per cent cut in 2007.

While a return peak fare goes up $1.40 to $46.40, the same fare was $48.40 in 2003.

Regular V/Line commuters can save up to 45 per cent on standard prices by purchasing a 10-52 week ticket (a ‘Date to Date’ fare).

At the new rates, travel from Bendigo to Melbourne will cost $69.50 per week or $6.95 each way for most travellers.

People travelling on the weekend or off-peak can also get a discount off the peak rates, with a return trip just $32.40.

Bendigo line return fares to/from Melbourne: