Public transport will be free for under-18s in Victoria starting next year, following the Victorian Labor government’s budget announcement.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the policy comes in response to the need for cost-of-living relief.

“Families are doing it tough and I’m on their side,” she said.

The “youth” myki card, which would be available to anyone under the age of 18, will allow free transport on trams, buses, trains and coach services within Victorian. It would expire when the card holder turned 18.

Senior card holders will also travel free on weekends on top of the current 50 percent weekday discount.

The new policy would take effect on January 1 2026.

The full state budget for the next financial year will be announced on Tuesday.

Photo: ‘D2 5001 (Melbourne tram) in Elizabeth St on route 19 to North Coburg in Public Transport Victoria livery’ by Liamdavies, December 2013 found HERE and used under a Creative Commons License. This image has not been modified.