The Victorian Government is in its final testing phase for the long-awaited transition to a tap-and-go system, where passengers can use bank cards or smartphones to pay for public transport. An RMIT expert explains what the shift means for passengers and if it will ease pressure on the state's growing transport system.
Andrew Butt, Professor in Sustainability and Urban Planning
"Many people will be familiar with tap-and-go system in cities such as Sydney and London, and while the technology is not new, it has apparently taken some time, and some new technology, to get it working on the Myki system.
"The advantages of this are clear for users, especially visitors and occasional users, with opportunities to reduce another barrier to using public transport.
"Shifting transport modes, from driving to public transport, offers advantages to ease congestion, manage major events, and meet the needs of tourists and visitors.
"Coupled with the new free under-18s fares, free weekend fares for seniors, and the opening of the Metro Tunnel, it provides a step change in public transport choice and access, at least for those with reliable options nearby.
"However, with increased usage, issues will still remain in a system where capacity on major routes, especially in Melbourne's rapidly growing outer suburbs, requires big investments, and where increased users at peak times and at major events demands more services."
Andrew Butt is a Professor in Sustainability and Urban Planning in the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies and the Centre for Urban Research at RMIT University. Andrew is a planning educator and researcher with a focus on peri-urban planning issues.
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