Victoria’s new public transport ticketing system, myki, is now valid for travel on the metropolitan Melbourne train network, Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky announced today.

From later today, Melburnians will have the chance to be among the first to get a myki by registering online for a free reusable smartcard.

“This is an important first step in a carefully planned rollout of myki in Melbourne,” Ms Kosky said.

“The system has undergone rigorous testing for the past two months across Melbourne’s public transport network.

“I have received advice from the Transport Ticketing Authority board that test data shows that myki is consistently reliable across Melbourne’s train network and they have therefore recommended the commencement of myki on the metropolitan rail network.

“From today, myki money or myki pass will be valid for travel on all train services operated by Metro, and all V/Line services in Zones 1+2, including Melton and Sunbury

“From 3pm today, people can go online at myki.com.au, open an account and register for a free myki.

“They can begin using their myki on the metropolitan train network as soon as they receive it and top up with money, a travel pass or both.

“Today Melburnians who catch the train will have the choice to use a myki or remain with Metcard until the roll out is complete.

“I have not yet received advice that all features of the tram and bus fleet have the required level of consistent reliability – so we will keep the public informed as to exactly when myki is ready to use on these parts of the network.”

Ms Kosky said it would take about six months or more to fully introduce myki in Victoria, with the Metcard system continuing to operate during this period.

“I’m confident that, once people are familiar with myki, they are going to love the ease and convenience it brings to ticketing,” she said.

“In fact, many people will automatically save money when they top up, touch on and touch off, as myki calculates the best daily fare for each user.

“With the myki and Metcard systems running together during the transition period, we can expect some operational challenges, and people deserve some time to get used to the change.

“We’ll be listening closely to myki users about their experience, and the operator is on notice to be ready to respond if issues arise.”

In keeping with the gradual rollout of myki annual pass holders will be advised by mail when they can make the switch to myki.

The myki system has been developed by Kamco under a public tender and contract agreement.

Project funding of up to $1.35 billion includes system design and delivery payments, future costs of operating the myki system for the next 10 years, and funding to maintain the Metcard system equipment through a staged roll out in 2010.

A public information campaign will begin shortly as the staged roll out of myki continues.

Further information about myki is available at www.myki.com.au