A Basic Guide to Using Melbourne Trams with Myki

I’ve recently visited the city and seen an influx of travelers and tourists who seem a bit confused when it comes to using Melbourne trams. I’d like to start by saying, welcome to Melbourne!

One of the best ways to navigate our city is by using its extensive tram network. I’ve conducted a guide that will help you understand how to use a Myki card or a Mobile Myki on trams, as well as on trains and buses.

Using Myki on Trams

1. Touching On and Off:
   • Zone 1+2 Travel: Always touch on. No need to touch off.
   • Free Tram Zone (City): No need to touch on or off.
   • Zone 2 Only: Touch on and off for a cheaper fare.
2. How to Use Myki:
   • Myki Card: Touch your card to the center of the reader until you hear a beep and see a green light.
   • Mobile Myki: Wake your phone, hold it about 1cm above the reader, wait for the beep and the green light, and check the tick on your phone screen.

Using Myki on Trains and Buses

• Trains: Always touch on before boarding and off after exiting. No need to touch off and on again when changing trains, except through Myki barrier gates.
• Buses: Remember to touch on when boarding and off when exiting. If you don’t, you’ll be charged a default 2-hour fare for metropolitan Melbourne.

Additional Information

V/Line Commuter Service

Touch on and off just like trains. Failure to touch off will result in a default peak fare charge.

What Happens if You Forgot to Touch Off?:

V/Line Passengers: You’ll be charged a default fare to the end of your line. Always touch off to avoid higher charges.

Change of Mind

At train stations, if you touch on but decide not to travel, touch off within 15 minutes to avoid charges. This doesn’t apply to trams or buses.

How to Use Myki Equipment

Navigating Melbourne’s public transport will become much easier once you’re familiar with the various Myki equipment. Here’s a quick guide on how to use the Myki machines, Quick Top-Up machines, readers, checks, and gates.

Myki Machines

1. Location: Find these at train stations, some tram stops, and bus interchanges.
2. Functions:
   • Purchasing a Myki: Select the option to buy a new Myki card. Follow the prompts to choose your card type and load it with Myki Money or a Myki Pass.
   • Top Up: Select the ‘Top Up’ option to add funds to your card. You can choose the amount and pay with cash or card.
   • Checking Balance: Simply touch your Myki card on the reader to view your balance and recent transaction history.

Quick Top-Up Machines

1. Location: Widely available at many stations and stops.
2. Function:
   • Primarily used for fast, efficient top-ups.
   • Just touch your card to the reader, select the amount to top up, and pay with your credit or debit card.

Myki Readers

1. Location: On trams, buses, and at station entrances/exits.
2. Using the Reader:
   • Touch On/Off: Hold your myki card or smartphone with Mobile myki close to the reader. Wait for the beep and green light to confirm the action.
   • Checking Balance: Quickly touch your card to the reader. The screen will display your current balance and confirm your touch on/off status.

Myki Checks

1. Function:
   • Standalone devices found in some locations for checking the balance and validity of your Myki card.
   • Simply touch your card to the reader to get the information.

Myki Gates

1. Location: At train station entrances and exits.
2. Using the Gates:
   • Entering/Exiting Stations: Touch your card on the reader at the gate. Wait for the green light and the gates to open. Walk through and ensure the gates close behind you.
   • Gate Won’t Open: If the gate doesn’t open, check the reader’s screen for a message. It may indicate a low balance or other issues.

Tips for Smooth Travel

• Keep Your Myki Handy: Always have your Myki card or smartphone ready to touch on or off to avoid delays.
• Check the Screen: Pay attention to the reader’s screen for your balance and confirmation of successful touch on/off.
• Regular Top-Up: Keep your Myki topped up to avoid running out of funds, especially during peak hours.

Authorised Officers: Present on trains, trams, and buses, and at stations. They ensure smooth operation and fare compliance.

Travel Benefits: Look out for free and discounted travel options when using public transport.

Transport Fines: Travel with a valid ticket to avoid fines and penalties for transport offenses.

Happy Travels!

Traveling in Melbourne using the Myki system is convenient and easy once you know the basics. Whether you’re using a Myki card or a smartphone, always remember to touch on and off according to the rules for each mode of transport to ensure a hassle-free journey. Enjoy your travels in Melbourne!