Melbourne commuters are edging closer to a long-promised upgrade, with contactless payments set to take their next major step on the myki network in the coming weeks.
After the installation of nearly 3,000 new ticket readers across more than 280 train stations, testing is now entering a new phase. From early next month, controlled closed-group trials will begin, marking the final stretch before passengers can tap on with a credit card, smartphone or smartwatch.
The initial round will take place behind the scenes, with Department of Transport and Planning staff testing the system in a laboratory environment over several days. This stage is designed to stress-test the technology across a wide range of bank cards and smart devices, before it’s exposed to the unpredictability of daily travel.
That real-world testing comes next. A small number of selected train stations will host further trials to ensure the system performs reliably on platforms and at gates, handling everything from refunds to customer support without disrupting services.
Public trials are expected to follow over the coming months, allowing passengers at selected stations to take part and provide feedback before contactless payments are switched on for full fare-paying travellers. More details on how to join those trials are set to be announced soon.
Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams said, “This is a critical next step in rolling out tap and go payments, allowing us to test the technology in real-world conditions and make sure the system works smoothly before it’s switched on for passengers.”
Installation of new readers on trains wrapped up late last year, with buses and trams due to follow early this year. Once testing is complete, contactless payments will launch on trains first, before rolling out across the rest of the network.
For now, the message is simple. The new readers currently accept myki only, so passengers should keep their cards or Mobile myki handy a little longer.
