The Victorian government has announced a two-month period of free public transport on weekends from early December 2025 to February 1, 2026, as a gesture of appreciation for residents' patience during the Metro Tunnel construction.

This initiative aims to boost tourism, support sustainability, and make travel more accessible, with free services including trains, trams, and buses running every 20 minutes between 10am and 3pm, and from 10am to 7pm on weekends.

Victoria's free weekend transport program, costing approximately $15 million and funded by the transport department, also extends to children under 18 starting January 1, further encouraging exploration of regional areas.

The program is part of a broader effort to create a sustainable and accessible transit system, reducing emissions and congestion, and aligning with global trends in greener tourism.

Alongside the free transport initiative, a major timetable overhaul will introduce 1,000 extra weekly services, with trains running every 10 minutes between Watergardens and Dandenong from 6am to 10pm, and more frequently during peak hours.

From February 1, 2025, the fully integrated Metro Tunnel will see lines like Cranbourne, Pakenham, and Sunbury exclusively using the tunnel, with services operating at full capacity and no need for Myki tap-ons during the initial phase.

This phased approach is necessary due to the complexity of integrating new infrastructure and technology, with the tunnel's opening expected to significantly improve travel across Melbourne.

The Metro Tunnel is set to open in early December after receiving safety approval, initially operating at reduced capacity outside peak times, with full operation expected soon after.

The tunnel's opening is expected to have lasting positive effects on regional tourism by making travel more sustainable and encouraging exploration of cultural, natural, and recreational attractions.

During this period, passengers will not need to tap on or off with Myki, and if they do, they won't be charged, simplifying travel for commuters.

The free transport initiative aims to make travel more affordable and accessible for residents and tourists alike, promoting exploration of Victoria's diverse landscapes and regional areas like Warrnambool, Ballarat, and Geelong.

By removing transportation costs, the program seeks to attract more tourists to regional Victoria, encouraging longer stays and boosting local economies.