Victoria’s free public transport initiative has now been extended until the end of May but overcrowding has prevented many regional travellers from using it this month.
Premier Jacinta Allen announced free travel across April in response to limited fuel supply and rising petrol prices, as war continues in the Middle East.
On Sunday, the Premier announced free travel would extend until the end of May, and half price fares would begin from June 1 until the end of the year.
The move is intended to “take the pressure off” households and fuel stores but has created some uncertainties due to limited public transport services in regional areas.
Bendigo V/Line travellers have reported overcrowding, delays, being forced to stand for lengthy trips, and being denied access due to capacity. Increased demand this month has also forced some regular commuters back into their cars.
Regular train commuter Bron Neill said she had not been able to get to work on time since the free transport period began.
“There has been no thought on the viability of this scheme and the infrastructure capability to deliver the free services. It was an already overstretched system,” she said.
“The train is crammed. Buses have been scheduled express to Southern Cross from Bendigo and it is still standing room only.”
Parents with prams, wheelchair users and people with bicycles have reported being refused travel due to overcrowding and been asked to use the next available service. Sometimes that next service was just as crowded.
Macedon Ranges resident Nicky said she had stopped taking her son to childcare on the train because “there was nowhere to park him in the pram”.
“So, it’s back in the car for us — hardly a win,” she said.
“Free public transport is a wonderful offering, but only if the vehicles and staff are properly resourced.”
Kylie Woods said she was left at the Clarkefield platform with two children on Easter Sunday because the train was already full from Southern Cross heading to Bendigo.
“I also enjoyed standing during the week from Clarkefield to Bendigo. Never enough carriages,” she quipped.
Steve Corden said it was “unfortunately mostly only standing room” and on weekends with three carriages he was unable to board as the train was already at capacity.
“It’s not feasible to get trains on weekends as you can’t be assured to actually get on,” he said.
While some commuters have shared positive stories of their free train travel experience, most called for more carriages and services.
A V/Line spokesperson told the Express V/Line services had been busier than usual during the free travel period. They encouraged passengers to plan ahead, travel outside peak periods and allow extra time for their journey.
“We will continue to closely monitor patronage across the network over coming weeks and, where possible, have coaches on standby at key locations to assist passengers,” they said.
“Hundreds of extra services have been added to the V/Line network in recent years, including five new weekend services added to the Bendigo Line in 2025, and more weekend services expanded from three to six-carriage VLocity trains.
“Our staff are working hard to help support people’s travel needs and we thank passengers for their understanding when services are busy.”
Elderly passengers and passengers with accessibility or medical needs can call 1800 800 007 prior to travelling to ensure staff are aware of their travel needs and can assist as needed.
The Express heard from many residents about their travel experiences. To read more, visit our Facebook page.
