Free weekend public transport will be introduced for carers and Disability Support Pensioners across Victoria from February 1 2026, expanding access to trains, trams and buses under a statewide initiative announced by the Allan government.
The change follows a temporary period of free weekend travel for all Victorians throughout the Metro Tunnel launch phase.
The announcement was made by Premier Jacinta Allan, joined by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence and Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas at Parkville Station ahead of the Metro Tunnel opening. The new entitlement is expected to benefit close to 300,000 Victorians.
Carer Card holders and Disability Support Pensioners will be able to use their myki as usual, with fares automatically waived on weekends. Travellers will be required to carry proof of their concession when using the network. The expanded offering replaces the existing rules, which limit carers to free travel in two adjoining zones.
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Premier Jacinta Allan says the change will make travel more accessible for those who rely on public transport.
“With free PT for carers and seniors on weekends, free PT every day for kids, and our regional fare cap: it’s never been cheaper and easier to get around Victoria,” Allan says.
The announcement coincides with the opening of the new Parkville Station pedestrian underpass. The fully accessible walkway sits 25 metres below ground and links The Royal Melbourne Hospital, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the University of Melbourne. The underpass is outside the station gates and can be used without a myki.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams says the new connection marks another milestone for the Metro Tunnel project.
“This new underpass is another milestone for the Metro Tunnel, and now we’re just days away from trains starting to run through our five brand-new underground stations,” Williams says.
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence says the expanded eligibility acknowledges the contribution of carers.
“Carers give so much of themselves every day; this is one way we can give back,” Spence says. “From next year, carers will be able to tap on and off on weekends at no cost.”
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas says the underpass will support the large number of health staff who travel to Parkville each day.
“This underpass, as well as the brand new Parkville Station opening this Sunday, will make their commute faster, safer and more reliable,” Thomas says.
The Metro Tunnel is scheduled to open on Sunday, doubling the size of Melbourne’s underground rail network and introducing five new underground stations.
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