The state of Victoria aims to significantly reduce the pressure on the cost of living for families across the state with a new measure that will come into effect from January 2026. The new regulation will make public transport completely free for all children under the age of 18.
This will see eligible young people receive a special ‘myki card’ that will give them unlimited access to trains, trams, buses and regional buses across Victoria. The card will be valid until the child turns 18 and will replace the current annual student fee of $755. This will provide significant financial relief for families and will contribute to their social and personal development by making it easier for them to get around.
A Plan That Will Give Breath to Family Budgets
Minister of Transport Gabrielle Williams stressed that this plan, which will be implemented, will make the daily lives of working parents easier, while also providing real savings in family budgets. Minister Williams, who noted that the reduced transportation costs and the resulting decrease in private car use will significantly reduce daily stress, stated that this application will offer multifaceted benefits for families.
Minister Williams also said that free public transport would provide children with easier access to part-time jobs, sports and community events. He added that expanded mobility would support children’s social growth and long-term development opportunities. This would enable young people to take a more active role not only economically but also socially and culturally.
Supporting Over One Million Children
Prime Minister Jacinta Allan confirmed that this important programme will support more than one million children. “Families are facing real financial hardship and this policy helps to ease that burden,” Prime Minister Allan said in the official announcement on Saturday. This statement shows that the government is aware of the financial hardships that families are experiencing and is committed to taking concrete action to address this.
Free Weekend Travel for Seniors Too
On the same day, Prime Minister Allan also announced important news for senior citizens. Accordingly, seniors will be able to benefit from free weekend public transport services throughout Victoria, and existing access opportunities will be expanded beyond limited areas. This decision aims to encourage more active participation of seniors in social life and reduce their transportation problems.
Despite Budget Criticism, Emphasis on Social Benefit
The new measures come at a time when the state has been criticised for its rising debt and costly infrastructure projects, but Premier Allan has promised the government is pursuing a “responsible” fiscal plan focusing on education, healthcare and basic community needs.
The free public transport initiative is expected to cost a total of $318 million over the next four years. While this is a significant investment, the government argues that the benefits of the policy, by promoting equality and supporting working families, far outweigh its costs. This approach shows that the government is prioritizing social welfare and social equality over economic considerations.
Support and Criticism from the Opposition Together
Opposition representatives, including Shadow Chancellor James Newbury, have expressed support for this family aid package, while also criticising the increased property taxes and the recent introduction of the emergency services levy. This suggests that the opposition supports family aid but questions the government’s overall fiscal policies.
Purpose: Accessible and Affordable Transportation
Despite the criticism, the underlying aim of this policy is clear: to provide affordable transport access that strengthens communities and reduces financial hardship. This initiative by the Victorian government demonstrates that public transport is seen as more than just a means of transport, but an essential public service that promotes social inclusion, eases economic burdens and contributes to environmental sustainability. This could mark the start of a new era for families and young people in Victoria, starting in January 2026.
