How to Get Around Melbourne Using Public Transport

Melbourne is a vibrant city with an excellent public transport system, and if you're a student or resident at UniLodge, a Myki card is essential for getting around with ease. Whether you're commuting to university, exploring the city, or visiting friends, this guide will help you make the most of your Myki card.

What is Myki Card?

Myki is Melbourne’s reusable public transport card, allowing travel on trains, trams, and buses across the city and regional areas. Instead of purchasing paper tickets, simply load money onto your Myki card and tap on and off as you travel.

How to Get a Myki Card

Myki for Students

If you’re a full-time student, you may be eligible for a Concession Myki or the iUSEpass, which offers discounted fares. To apply:

1. Obtain a PTV Tertiary Student ID from your university.
2. Apply for a Concession Myki online or in person at a PTV Hub.
3. Consider the iUSEpass, which provides unlimited travel for a set period at a discounted rate.

To see if you are eligible for a Myki that has a concession fare, visit the PTV website here. 

Where to Buy a Myki Card

You can purchase a Myki card at:

• 7-Eleven stores
• Train stations
• Myki ticket machines (available at stations and select tram stops)
• Online via the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) website

Using Your Myki Card

• Topping Up: 
  Load money onto your Myki via ticket machines, online, or at retail outlets.
• Tapping On and Off:
  Trains and buses: Tap on when you board and tap off when you leave.
• Trams:
  Only tap on if traveling outside the Free Tram Zone (CBD and Docklands area).
• Checking Your Balance: 
  Use the Myki app, Myki machines or online services.

Free Tram Zone

One of the best perks of Melbourne’s public transport is the Free Tram Zone in the CBD. Within this zone, you don’t need to tap on or off, making it an easy and cost-free way to explore the city. However, if you travel beyond the zone, you must tap on to avoid fines.

[Did you know?] There's a FREE City Circle Tram Service (also known as the 35 City Circle or Free Tourist Tram) that travels through Docklands, Melbourne City, Carlton, Fitzroy, and South Bank. Check out the route map here. 

Travel Zones

The fare you pay is determined by the zones you travel through. Zones only apply to Myki fares. Fares are capped across the network, so once you've reached the cap, you won’t be charged more no matter how far you travel.

To discover which zone your stop or station is in or learn more about the Metropolitan and Regional zones fares - visit the PTV website.

Tips for Smooth Travel

• Always carry your Myki card to avoid fines.
• Register your card online to protect your balance if lost or stolen.
• Check your Myki balance regularly to ensure you have enough credit.
• Avoid peak-hour travel when possible for a more comfortable ride.

Getting around Melbourne with Myki is simple once you know the basics. Whether you’re heading to class, exploring iconic sites, or meeting friends, your Myki card makes travel seamless. Happy commuting!

For more information, visit Public Transport Victoria.

Travel from Melbourne Airport to the city

One of the easiest ways to travel from Melbourne Airport to the city is with SkyBus. This is an express bus that runs from Tullamarine Airport to Southern Cross Station in the city and is one of the most popular options for those visiting and staying in Melbourne's CBD. This journey lasts 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. 

Book online here to skip the ticket line. You can reserve now and pay later! This service is not covered on you Myki card.