Victoria’s Myki upgrade is facing significant delays and cost overruns, with the project now 18 months behind schedule and $137 million over budget. Recent budget reports highlighted these issues, revealing that the total expected investment (TEI) has escalated by over $136 million due to a significant program reset. The revised completion date for the project is now anticipated to be in the second quarter of 2028-2029.
Daniel Bowen from the Public Transport Users Association expressed concern that the situation mirrors past delays and complications with the original Myki system. He expressed frustration over the postponements, yet remains hopeful that some improvements, such as the introduction of bank card payments, can be rolled out as planned next year.
To manage this financial shortfall, the Victorian government has cut funding for additional V-Line trains that were previously promised for the 2022-23 period. Budget documents noted a reduction of $21.375 million in TEI to reallocate funds towards other initiatives, including the east Pakenham Sub Station and the statewide Public Transport Ticketing Asset Renewal.
Despite the setbacks associated with the Myki project, public transport has received wider support in the 2025-26 budget, with a commitment of $4.1 billion earmarked for the new Sunshine Station hub. An additional $727 million is slated for the activation of the Metro Tunnel later this year. Furthermore, $99 million will enhance services on multiple train lines, including the Sandringham, Craigieburn, Upfield, Werribee, and the Gippsland line to Traralgon.
Starting January 1, the government will also implement free travel for children across the network and expand free weekend travel for seniors cardholders, signalling a commitment to improve public transport accessibility.