Image credit: Australian Bus and Coach and Conduent
by Justin Di Giulio
A paradigm shift is underway for the Victorian public transport network, with a significant upgrade to the current Myki system on the horizon. This comes as the Victorian Government announced the signing of a new ticketing contract with globally recognized ticketing supplier, Conduent Business Services.
While the Myki system has been under scrutiny for its persistent technical issues and the inability to accept modern payment methods, this new 15-year contract worth $1.7bn aims to revolutionise the ticketing experience for Victorians. With the promise of implementing tried-and-true technologies, passengers will soon have the convenience of tapping on and off with credit or debit cards, and using digital wallets on smartphones or smartwatches.
Scheduled to take over the existing system on 1 December 2023, Conduent's appointment comes after an exhaustive 18-month tender process. Their impressive track record, with over 400 ticketing systems across 24 countries, played a pivotal role in securing the deal.
Locations include Paris, Dubai, Montreal, and New Jersey, which bodes well for the level of efficiency and innovation they can bring to Victoria's transport network.
In line with Minister Ben Carroll's remarks, Victoria's journey from a card-based system to an account-based one represents the state's embrace of 21st-century solutions. This digital evolution not only promises a simplified user experience but also fosters inclusivity for both regular commuters and tourists.
Although the transition promises a host of new features, it's crucial to note that there will be no immediate changes to the existing Myki or V/Line ticketing system. This gradual change ensures minimal disruption for passengers during the transition.
However, as with all significant public ventures, there's a wave of anticipation mixed with skepticism. Questions arise, especially considering past challenges with Myki's budget and timeline. The opposition has already expressed concerns about the two-year rollout period for a system that's essentially off-the-shelf.
Image Credit: James Warfe
Furthermore, while welcoming the digital transition, the Public Transport Users Association emphasises the need for the new system to automatically provide discounted fares for regular users.
As Victoria gears up for this considerable change, it's clear that the focus is on improving user experience and adapting to the digital age. With the State Government's dedication and Conduent's global expertise, Victorians can look forward to a more seamless and efficient public transport experience in the near future.
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