Comments on: The saga of concession myki sales at ticket machines

By: Marcus Wong

Marcus Wong — Wed, 31 May 2023 02:07:03 +0000

In reply to GXH.

The ‘Smart Ticketing’ system being rolled out by Translink in Queensland will support concession fares –

https://translink.com.au/about-translink/projects-and-initiatives/smart-ticketing/faqs

I believe it’ll require users to register their payment card with the transport operator so the backend charges the lower fare.

By: Marcus Wong

Marcus Wong — Wed, 31 May 2023 02:03:14 +0000

In reply to Tramologist.

That’s a good find!

https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/footer/legal-and-policies/victorian-fares-and-ticketing-manual/

By: Marcus Wong

Marcus Wong — Wed, 31 May 2023 02:02:32 +0000

In reply to Tramologist.

It appears you get your first Seniors Myki card for free with your government issued Seniors Card.

https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-and-free-travel/seniors/

By: GXH

GXH — Sat, 20 May 2023 05:00:36 +0000

In reply to jw.

“However, should we really have concession fares?”
This is a really interesting question. There are so many issues: who are such fares intended to benefit – are they intended as a form of social welfare or are they provided for other reasons? And do they need to be at 50% discount – why not more or less than this? Ought they apply 24/7, or just at certain times?
However, the concept of half price concession fares is so embedded in our culture (and around the world), it seem unlikely that anyone would have the courage to change or even query the system (except, perhaps, to give yet more concessions!)

By: jw

jw — Fri, 19 May 2023 04:20:14 +0000

In reply to GXH. I think you are correct. However, should we really have concession fares? I enjoy the seniors' concession, but I occupy a full seat just like everyone else. Likewise students etc. One again before we launch into a new ticketing system we need to think all this stuff through.

By: GXH

GXH — Fri, 19 May 2023 03:51:40 +0000

Meanwhile, we’ve moving (slowly) towards being able to use NFC technology as well as Myki cards. However, my impression is that elsewhere in the world where “tap” technology is already available, it can only be used for full fares. Looks like Myki machines may continue to be required for the sale of concession cards for a few years yet.

By: Tramologist

Tramologist — Tue, 16 May 2023 01:14:10 +0000

According to Victorian Fares and Ticketing Conditions 4.26, A Myki Smartcard will be operational for at least four years from the day of purchase before expiry. By starting the clock ticking at distribution stage, the issuer has broken its own rule.

By: jw

jw — Tue, 16 May 2023 00:13:48 +0000

Now we’re going to revamp Myki yet again…
When I first came to Melbourne you bought the (paper) ticket you wanted at the station or on the bus or tram, daily, monthly etc.
I sometimes wonder whether, overall, we’ve actually saved any cost to the taxpayer with all the changes since…

By: Tramologist

Tramologist — Mon, 15 May 2023 21:42:33 +0000

I thought senior cards don’t have a card cost, or have I been mistaken?