Get ready for new operators and new features.
Victoria’s Myki system is scheduled for a big switch-up. Starting on December 1, the transit network will be operated by Conduent Business Services, a global company that operates more than 400 ticketing systems across the world, including those in Paris, Dubai, New Jersey and Montreal.
The company has signed a 15-year contract to take control of the state’s public transit and will be replacing the current operator, NTT Data.
Myki changes operators
- The Victorian public transport system will change hands from NTT Data to Conduent Business Services
- The new ticketing business plans to introduce user accounts, iPhone and Apple watch payments, and direct credit and debit tap-ons
- The new contract will begin in December this year
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
With the new contract comes a range of new features the government hopes will make the system “more efficient and effective”.
Conduent Business Services is planning on expanding payment options, allowing users to tap on and off using only their credit or debit card. This means users will no longer have to purchase a grey physical Myki card, currently costing $6, which is especially desirable for tourists.
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The business also hopes to allow users to tap on and off directly via smartphones or Apple watches. Android users have already been able to use this service since March 2019, but it’ll be a first for those with Apple phones.
Trials for the new payment methods are set to begin in 2024, with the goal of having the transition complete before the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
There will be no immediate changes to the current Myki and V/Line card method when the new company steps in – users will still be able to access transit and recharge cards the same ways they used to.
Conduent Business Services secured the rights to the system in a $1.7 billion deal.
“This is a very important moment for Victoria and public transport. For the past sixteen years, we have had a card-based ticketing system under Myki. We will now reach the 21st century with account-based ticketing” said Transport Minister Ben Carroll at the announcement.
Keep up to date with all the Myki changes here.
