train travel victoria

Cheaper V/Line fares for regional Victoria to come into effect late March

Victorians will see cheaper fares on V/Line train trips from late March in a move that is eagerly anticipated by regional councils.

Key points:

• Cheaper fares for V/Line customers will come into effect March 31
• It's a welcome reprieve for commuters, with paper ticket adult fares reaching as high as $92.00 return for certain regional areas
• In 2007 V/Line reported a surge in customers after a 20 per cent fare cut

Prior to the November state election, both major political parties promised to slash regional train prices if elected.

A promise from the Labor government will come into effect in three months' time, which will include a cap to the daily travel cost anywhere in the state at $9.20, bringing regional fares in line with Metro Melbourne daily rate fares.

It's a welcome reprieve for commuters, with paper ticket fares reaching as high as $46.00 for one-way journeys in certain regional areas.

In 2007 V/Line reported a surge in customers using the train services after the last fare cut of 20 per cent.

The cheaper fares will come into effect from March 31.

Ballarat Convenor of the Public Transport Users Association Ben Lever says the move "is a positive one".

"The V/line fares are not competitive with driving and they're not proportional to distance travelled," Mr Lever said.

"So, there is a big leap when you leave Melbourne and get out into the regions, and the fares go up substantially.

"So there definitely is a need for a reduction."

Myki services can be used between Geelong, Ballarat Wendouree, Bendigo, Epsom, Eaglehawk, Traralgon and Seymour, but other Victorian areas still use paper tickets.

Supporting trips to regions

Currently, a daily ticket from Melbourne to Swan Hill, or vice versa, costs a public transport user as much as $46 for a full adult fare.

It is hoped the statewide fare reduction will see an influx of visitors into regional Victoria.

"I think it'll be a wonderful boost for our local tourism sector," said Warrnambool Mayor Debbie Arnott.

"Also, you're going to have a lot of people [from this region] that have medical appointments in Melbourne.

"It's going to be such a huge help for those people."

With the promise of regional Victorian events coming back full-swing after the stress of the pandemic, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Ms Arnott says the cheaper fares are vital for the growth of the regions.

"I'm hoping [it will mean] people will think: 'While we're in the regions for the [Commonwealth] Games, let's jump a train and go a little bit further,'" she said.

"Then it'll allow them to budget for a night or two's accommodation.

"I would hope the flow-on effect would really be something worthwhile."

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Travel & transport

Tips for seniors for reducing the cost of travel

On this page:

Free travel vouchers, metropolitan travel, travel in regional victoria, other ways to cut your travel costs, travelling outside of victoria, other money-saving travel tips.

• Find out about the transport benefits you receive as a Seniors Card holder, such as free travel vouchers and free weekend travel between two adjacent zones.
• Cut your travel costs within and outside Victoria with the various hints and tips given below.

Your Victorian Seniors Card means you can enjoy discounted travel in Victoria and Australia-wide.

• Every Seniors Card holder receives free off-peak travel vouchers to use on public transport in Victoria.
• Register for your free vouchers at the PTV website www.ptv.vic.gov.au/vouchers External Link
• Each voucher can be exchanged for either: a V/Line off-peak daily ticket (going out and back on the same day); two V/Line off-peak single tickets (going out on one day and back on another); a 1 Day Travel Pass for travel in Zones 1 and 2.

From 1 November 2022, the Department of Transport is introducing more booking options to make it easier to redeem your free travel and visiting a station during opening hours to redeem your voucher for a ticket is no longer the only option.

• From 1 November 2022 Vouchers will be held electronically so you can choose to redeem vouchers at a staffed station or V/Line agent, or over the phone via the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) call centre.
• You can choose to collect your ticket from a station or agent prior to travel or call 10 business days in advance and have your ticket posted to you.
• And in 2023, you will also be able to redeem your vouchers online.
• Phone 1800 800 007 or visit the PTV website www.ptv.vic.gov.au External Link for more information or to make V/Line reservations. V/Line tickets are subject to availability at off-peak times.
• With a seniors myki you travel free on the weekend within one or two consecutive zones on all metropolitan trains, trams and buses – this includes to outlying metropolitan areas as far as Sunbury and Melton.
• During the week, you can still access discounted rates at all times on all routes with your seniors myki.
• If you take a trip in non-consecutive zones, or a trip of more than two zones, a fare for the whole trip will be charged.

Consider travelling by public transport in off-peak periods. It's less crowded and you still get a great discount with your Seniors Card.

• Travel free on the weekends on V/Line commuter rail services when using myki for trips of one or two consecutive zones (for example, Woodend to Gisborne).
• At other times, V/Line offers concession rates for Seniors Card holders through regional Victoria.
• Take advantage of off-peak rates during quieter times.
• Phone 1800 800 007 for more information or to pre-book tickets.
• The V/Line website lists all its fares and routes www.vline.com.au External Link .
• You can also travel free on regional town bus networks over the weekend in major regional cities such as Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Mildura and Warrnambool. On regional town buses where myki is not operating, show your Victorian Seniors Card to travel free on weekends.

Myki works like an electronic purse for public transport. You have to top up the card’s balance whenever it runs low on funds.

The seniors myki offers discounted rates at all times on all routes. You pay no more than the seniors daily cap (zones 1 & 2) when you travel on weekdays.

How do I get a seniors myki?

New Seniors Card program applicants receive a seniors myki for free with their Seniors Card posted with a Welcome pack.

Seniors Business Discount Card holders are not eligible to receive a free Seniors myki card upon joining the program.

Once you have your seniors myki, you should register it. There are many benefits to registering your myki, including free card replacement card if it's lost or stolen. For more information on how to register, visit the Public Transport Victoria website External Link

And you can top it up at:

• Hundreds of shops including all 7-Eleven stores.
• Premium Stations as listed on the PTV website External Link .
• From myki machines at selected train stations and stops.
• Mobile myki app using your Android smartphone. For more information visit the PTV website. External Link
• Online at PTV website External Link .
• By calling PTV on 1800 800 007.

Remember - it's a condition that you carry your Seniors Card at all times when travelling on public transport as proof of your concession entitlement.

Replacement myki

Like many other cards, myki cards do expire, so keep track of your card’s expiry date. If your myki is registered and you have an online account – find your card expiry date online. If your myki is not registered, check the expiry date at a myki machine, myki check, or by calling 1800 800 007.

Even if you're travelling for free on the weekend, on myki-enabled services you must touch on and off as normal - you won't be charged.

Support for people with a disability or health issues

• All metropolitan trains are wheelchair accessible and low-floor trams and buses are available on some routes. Most V/Line trains and coaches can be accessed by wheelchairs. More information on accessible transport is available from PTV on 1800 800 007 or www.ptv.vic.gov.au External Link .
• Travellers Aid Australia provides simple, practical travel-related support and aid that helps people travel independently and confidently. This support includes buggy and personal guidance services at Southern Cross Station, help getting to medical appointments in central Melbourne and mobility equipment hire. Centres are available at Flinders Street station (9610 2030) and Southern Cross station (9670 2072) or visit www.travellersaid.org.au External Link .
• Most V/Line trains and coaches can be accessed by wheelchair. Reservations are required for wheelchairs on V/Line coach services. Phone 1800 800 007 at least 24 hours before you travel to reserve a place.
• Victorians with severe and permanent disabilities who cannot access public transport independently may be eligible to join the Multi Purpose Taxi Program – a Victorian Government program that offers its members a 50 per cent subsidy on taxi fares of up to $60 per trip. Contact the Taxi Services Commission on 1800 638 802, or visit www.taxi.vic.gov.au External Link for more information.
• Car pool with a neighbour or friend when driving to the shops or running errands.
• The free City Circle tram service in the CBD takes in major tourist attractions, and links with other tram, train and bus routes in and around Melbourne. Trams run in both directions every 12 minutes between 10am and 6pm Sunday to Wednesday and extended hours, 10am to 9pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday (excludes Christmas Day and Good Friday). Contact Yarra Trams 1800 800 007 or visit www.yarratrams.com.au External Link to find out more.
• Cars can be expensive to maintain and keep on the road. If you’ve got easy access to public transport, why not sell your car?
• Many councils offer free or heavily discounted travel services (such as bus or shuttle services) to older residents. Contact your local council to find out what you are entitled to access.

Car not running well? Ask your local servo what discounts they offer before you purchase. Or visit Seniors Online to find discount auto services in your area. Visit the Discount Directory and scroll down to the 'Automotive Care' category.

You can even get a Seniors Card discount when washing your car. - Bill

• Take advantage of discounts from interstate Seniors Card participating businesses when you travel.
• Commonwealth offers to state and territory governments to provide reciprocal transport concessions for state seniors card holders will be withdrawn. While Victoria government at this stage will be continuing to provide interstate seniors with Victorian transport concessions, it is not clear whether other states will continue to do so. Please contact Seniors Card programs in each state and territory for information in this regard.
• You can use your Victorian Seniors Card with New Zealand retailers and traders. Visit the New Zealand SuperGold website at www.supergold.govt.nz External Link or call 0800 25 45 65 when in New Zealand.
• Take your Seniors Card when you travel overseas. Some overseas businesses will provide you with goodwill discounts if you ask.
• Check out the www.smartraveller.gov.au External Link website for useful travel information and advice.

We have used out Seniors Card when travelling at motels and other accommodation. We have always received a great discount. - Bill

• Check if your travel company offers discounts to Seniors Card holders.
• Travelling outside school holidays is always cheaper and travelling late at night or taking a longer route can be cheaper too – especially with flights. Consider going during the week instead of on the weekend or taking flights with stopovers.
• ‘Shoulder season’ – the time just before or after the peak holiday season – is a cheaper time to travel. The weather is still generally good in destination cities and there are fewer tourists.
• On most budget airlines you can avoid a baggage fee by only travelling with carry-on luggage.
• Cruise and tour companies often offer discounted rates close to the departure date. Try searching online for ‘cruises’ and ‘last-minute’ or ‘discount’.

Take a low-cost holiday with family or friends in regional Victoria or Melbourne by using your free travel vouchers and staying somewhere that offers a Seniors Card Discount. If you're on Seniors Online, choose the 'Accommodation' category in the Discount Directory .

Reviewed 01 March 2023

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Epic Australian Train Journeys To Add to Your Wish List

Posted: May 6, 2023 | Last updated: July 9, 2023

Track magic

Victoria Goldfields Railway

Journey back into the gold rush era aboard Victoria Goldfields Railway's steam heritage train that chugs between the historic towns of Castlemaine and Maldon in central Victoria. Opt for the excursion class or go for first class to ride in style in spacious Edwardian-era compartments that grant access to an open observation deck at the front.

The 10.5 mile (17km) trip takes about 50 minutes each way with the train from Castlemaine spending two-and-a-half hours at Maldon, plenty of time for exploring its heritage sites. For serious train lovers, this attraction offers a chance to ride alongside the driver or even to drive a heritage steam or diesel locomotives while in charge of a goods train themselves.

The West Coast Wilderness Railway

From transporting copper to top Tassie attraction, The West Coast Wilderness Railway runs 22 miles (35km) between the old mining town of Queenstown and the port of Strahan on the island’s wild west coast. It’s a short but spectacular trip aboard restored heritage trains, running through tracts of dense ancient rainforest and up some seriously steep slopes. At present it’s not possible to travel the length of the railway in both directions, but this will resume in 2023.

For now, the half-day itineraries see passengers board at either Queenstown or Strahan and track along to Dubbil Barril before returning to their departure station. The train makes stops at remote train stations along the way for walks into the rainforest and panning for gold. Highlights include seeing the train being turned on the turntable at Dubbil Barril, climbing one of the Southern Hemisphere’s steepest tracks, crossing the Iron Bridge and traversing the deep chasm of the King River Gorge. 

The Q Train

All aboard, foodies: Victoria’s Q Train is quite the hot culinary ticket. Travelling along the 10 mile (16km) Bellarine Railway from the historic Drysdale station, this railway journey is all about drinking in the views as you savor wines and produce from the bucolic Bellarine Peninsula. Over a luxurious three-hour trip between Drysdale and Queenscliff, passengers feast on a six-course degustation menu while seated in refurbished rail dining cars.

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One of the world's most famous train journeys, t he Ghan is a truly epic ride. Linking Adelaide in the south with Darwin in the north (or vice versa), the Ghan crosses the length of Australia on a three-day journey, spanning 1,851 miles (2,979km). Striking through the red heart of Australia, passengers have the option to add an extra day to their journey to go underground at an opal mine at Coober Pedy, stop at fascinating outback center Alice Springs, or go on a boat tour through the Katherine Gorge. 

Indian Pacific

Traversing the entire width of Australia, the Indian Pacific journeys from Sydney on the east coast to Perth on the west coast (and vice versa) with a stop-off in Adelaide along the way. Spanning four days, three nights, three time zones and a distance of 2,704 miles (4,352km), the train passes through some diverse landscapes. The scenic Blue Mountains (pictured), outback country around Broken Hill, the vast, parched Nullabor Plain and goldfields of Western Australia are among them.

Spirit of the Outback

Travelers aboard Spirit of the Outback embark on a 26-hour trip that follows the Queensland coastline from Brisbane to Rockhampton until it turns west into the outback to pass through a string of quaint rural towns before terminating in Longreach. Covering 823 miles (1,325km) in total, the train rattles through ever-changing scenery and increasingly rugged terrain.

Passengers can choose between an economy seat or a first-class sleeper cabin, with the latter enjoying meals in the dining carriage, the Tuckerbox Restaurant. Economy passengers can purchase meals and refreshments for the trip in the galley. The train leaves Brisbane on Tuesdays and Saturdays and Longreach on Mondays and Thursdays.

Take a look at Australia's eeriest abandoned towns and villages

Scenic train journey options are fairly limited in Western Australia, but the narrow-gauge railway service between Perth and Bunbury in the south is a fun adventure. The Australind , as it's known, covers 112 miles (181km) over the course of two-and-a-half hours and runs south from Perth, passing through a fragrant fruit-growing area that's also renowned for its abundance of wild flowers. There is a dining car on board, should hunger strike. 

The Overland

Running for more than 130 years, The Overland has long been a popular mode of transport for passengers travelling between the cities of Adelaide and Melbourne. The inter-state journey takes a leisurely 11 hours to complete and the train passes through an enthralling range of landscapes, from rugged shrublands to lush green fields and by the lower reaches of mighty Murray River. 

Kuranda Scenic Railway

The two-hour journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway runs from Cairns to Kuranda up in the Atherton Tableland and takes visitors through one of the world's oldest rainforests. The tropical scenery takes in waterfalls, mountains and ravines as well as one of Queensland's most popular national parks, Barron Gorge. In the village of Kuranda, visitors can tour the historic train station, which is more than 100 years old, plus visit a butterfly sanctuary, the Koala Gardens and local markets.

On what is a popular day trip from Cairns Railway Station or Freshwater Railway Station, many passengers combine a one-way ride on the railway with a trip on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. It's a wonderful way to experience the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland from different angles.

Discover more of Australia's amazing national parks

Spirit of Queensland

Replacing the much-loved Sunlander in 2014, the  Spirit of Queensland  travels 1,044 miles (1,681km) over 25 hours, connecting Brisbane and Cairns. The long-distance rail service passes through gorgeous tropical landscapes and connects passengers with coastal Queensland's spectacular destinations including hop-off points to explore the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays. 

Modern and efficient, the Spirit of Queensland can travel at speeds of up to 99 miles per hour (160km/h) and promises those aboard a smooth ride. It offers passengers an airline-style experience with a choice of either premium economy seats or a RailBed (seats that convert into a lie-flat bed at night) with different dining options.

Puffing Billy Railway

Often named Australia's finest heritage railway, this is one for serious train fans and history buffs. Harking back to a by-gone era when steam locomotives ruled the rails, Puffing Billy is a relic of the 1920s that still races through the Dandenong Ranges on a one-and-a-half-hour journey. The only survivor of a failed attempt at introducing a series of narrow-gauge lines by the then-named Victorian Railways, Puffing Billy is a piece of living history. The journey goes from Belgrave into Sherbrooke Forest, to the intermediate station of Emerald and onto the historic township of Gembrook.

It's also a hugely popular family outing too. The Puffing Billy is famed for its open-side carriages where people can sit on the carriage sills and dangle their legs, all while taking in the views of the hills, forests, lush gullies and the railway's soaring timber trestle bridges. Trains run daily with one train offering a lunch service. Dinner service is available on Fridays and Saturdays – it's advised to book well in advance. The railway also has doggy specials known as the Puffing Billy Dog Express.

Pichi Richi Railway

Located in the southern part of the spectacular Flinders Ranges in South Australia, Pichi Richi is a tourist heritage railway that gives passengers a glimpse of what it would have been like to travel along the original Ghan route. The train runs between the small outback town of Quorn to Port Augusta at the head of Spencer Gulf via the Pichi Richi Pass.

These are  24 of Australia's most beautiful outback towns

As well as taking in the epic landscapes and picturesque country towns of the Flinders, it's a brilliant insight into the country's rail heritage. All Pichi Richi Railway trains use historic steam or diesel locomotives or railcars or immaculately restored timber carriages, some of which are more than 130 years old.

Great Southern

Australia's newest luxury long-distance train journey, Great Southern takes its passengers on a magnificent trip to explore the east and southern coasts of mainland Australia. Running between Brisbane and Adelaide, the luxurious bright orange train travels past rugged coastlines, sun-kissed beaches and forested peaks over a course of three days and two nights. 

If the scenery is too enticing, a variety of off-train activities can be arranged for passengers aboard this slick service to explore Victoria's Grampians, Canberra and the Hunter Valley and Coffs Harbour in New South Wales. These include outdoor dining experiences, guided nature walks, vineyard tours and visits to cultural and historic sights in the nation's capital. 

Now discover the world's most luxurious train journeys

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News | London

London travel news LIVE: Tube stations forced to shut as 24-hour strike hits the Underground

Several London Underground stations are closed due to workers striking while two Tube lines were halted because of a casualty on the track.

Transport for London said four stations were closed on the network at 3.50pm on Friday due to the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association action.

They are staging a fresh 24-hour strike in a dispute over terms and conditions from Friday and are banning overtime until May 5.

The union said the action was likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including into Saturday morning, but Transport for London said there will not be significant disruption.

Those closed are marked Pimlico, and Regents Park.

Aldgate, Caledonian Road, Bermondsey, Barbican, Temple, Vauxhall and Piccadilly Circus had also been closed but have now reopened.

Camden Town has reopened as well after a power failure.

There is, as of 8pm, a good service on all lines apart from the Northern which had minor delays.

Follow latest updates below...

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Live updates

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Our live coverage of today’s travel developments is now ending.

Thank you for joining us, we will be back again with all the latest London travel news.

Tube station reopens

Tufnell Park Tube station has now reopened, TfL has said.

That leaves Pimlico and Regent’s Park still closed, alongside Kentish Town, which is closed for engineering works.

Severe delays on Northern Line

There are severe delays between Camden Town and Battersea due to an earlier fire alert at Brent Cross.

Three Central London Tube stations remain closed

Three central London Tube stations remain closed this evening due to strikes.

These are Pimlico, Regent’s Park and Tufnell Park.

Kentish Town remains closed for engineering works.

Chorleywood, which had earlier been closed, has since reopened.

Highgate station reopens

Highgate station has reopened, Transport for London has said.

It had been closed earlier on Friday.

Meanwhile, the previously reported delays on the Victoria line have cleared up.

Severe delays on the Victoria line

Transport for London is now reporting severe delays on the Victoria line.

A signal failure at Walthamstow Central has led to the issues on the stretch back to Seven Sisters.

Tufnell Park station closed

Tufnell Park station has been closed due to strike action by station staff.

Transport for London will look to reopen it later today.

Minor delays on Victoria Line

The Victoria Line is experiencing minor delays between Seven Sisters and Walthamstow Central due to a signal failure.

Severe weather may impact rail journeys this weekend

Trains running across Southern, Gatwick Express, Thameslink and Great Northern networks may be delayed this weekend due to severe weather, National Rail has warned.

Disruption is expected from Saturday evening until 12pm on Sunday.

Camden Town back open

Camden Town Tube station has reopened after being forced to close on Friday due to a power failure.

It means only four stations are now closed, including Kentish Town which is set to be out of action for some time due to works.