Until the end of May, these regional escapes won’t cost a cent to reach. From June, you’ll be able to get there at half price.

In recent weeks, fuel prices across Australia have skyrocketed as the global oil supply crisis continues. To help ease the strain, select state governments have introduced free public transport periods.

Victoria was the second state to offer its residents some much-needed relief, following Tasmania’s lead back in March. Now, the Victorian government is extending its free public transport period until 31 May, and will halve all passenger fares from June until the end of the year.

So if there was ever a time to swap the road for the railway tracks, it’s now. Next stop? A spontaneous weekend getaway.

How it works

The Victorian government has extended the duration of its free public transport initiative, now ending on 31 May 2026. In addition, public transport fares will be half price for all passengers until 1 January 2027.

“With fuel prices rising, free public transport for a month takes pressure off the pump," says Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan. “This won’t solve every problem, but it is an immediate step to help Victorians right now."

The initiative covers all metropolitan and V/Line services, including trains, trams and coaches. Barrier gates at stations will remain open throughout the month, so passengers no longer need to tap their Myki card or buy a ticket for V/Line trains. However, this does mean seat reservations will be unavailable during the free travel period. From 1 June, passengers can book seats on V/Line as usual, at the half price fare.

All yearly Myki passes have also been paused, with some cardholders eligible to request a refund through Transport Victoria. Tickets are still required for V/Line coach services to secure a seat before boarding, but are free to obtain.

Passengers with accessibility needs are encouraged to arrive early for their service and reach out prior to travelling. Staff will be on hand to assist and support priority passengers, ensuring everyone has a safe and comfortable journey.

Where should you go in Victoria to make the most of free train travel?

While restricted to the state border, Victorians are spoilt for choice. From coast to country, Victoria is brimming with beautiful destinations – and the V/Line connects to many of them. If you’re one to look for silver linings, this is it.

So instead of fuelling up the car or splashing cash on train tickets, consider this your sign to escape the city – without spending a cent on travel. We’ve even done the hard work for you, so all that’s left to do is pick a train line, pack a bag and hop on board*.

Gippsland Line (East)

Your stop: Bairnsdale
Travel time: 4 hours
Best for: Nature enthusiasts

Stretching east from the city, this line quickly opens up to the Gippsland region’s verdant rolling landscapes. Those seeking an outdoor escape should disembark at the end of the line in Bairnsdale.

The historic town acts as a gateway to the Gippsland Lakes, home to the longest silt jetties in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you cosy up at a cafe on the main strip or opt to explore the surrounding forests, it’s an easy way to swap city life for country living.

Geelong Line (South West)

Your stop: Geelong
Travel time: 1 hour
Best for: Beach lovers

Tracing Victoria’s picturesque south-west coast, this line is great for a seaside escape. Jump off in Geelong, around an hour from Melbourne, where days are shaped around the tides and life follows the rhythm of the waves.

Spend your weekend hopping between the city’s bountiful beaches, hiking scenic coastal trails or hanging ten at famous surf spot, Bells Beach. Base yourself at Quest Geelong, just a 10-minute walk from the station, so the waterfront is always just a moment away.

Ballarat Line (West)

Your stop: Ballarat
Travel time: 90 minutes
Best for: Culture vultures

Don’t let its gold-rush heritage and grand architecture fool you. The regional hub of Ballarat is home to a thriving arts scene – hidden in plain sight just 90 minutes out of Melbourne.

While its history is undoubtedly rich, the city’s creative community has sparked a contemporary buzz that’s hard to ignore. Spend the weekend browsing local galleries, artisan workshops, record stores and antique emporiums to meet the makers behind Ballarat’s artistic boom.

Bendigo Line (North)

Your stop: Echuca
Travel time: 3 hours
Best for: History buffs

Echuca may mark the end of the Bendigo Line, but it is definitely worth the journey. Just below the NSW border on the banks of the Murray, life here matches the rhythm of the river, which has moved at its own quiet pace for centuries.

At Echuca’s core is its historic port, the beating heart of the settlement since its establishment in 1850. Today, visitors can either step back in time on board a restored Echuca Paddlesteamers vessel or embrace modern river life with a houseboat stay.

Seymour/North East Line

Your stop: Albury
Travel time: 3.5 hours
Best for: Foodies

Cutting a path north-east from Melbourne, this line is all about enjoying the journey and the destination. Spend the morning watching pastoral scenes pass you by before arriving in Albury, which shares twin-city status with nearby Wodonga.

Described as a gourmet goldmine, it delivers a masterclass in food and flavour, with long lunches and local wines setting the tone. Base yourself at Quest Albury so you can fully lean into the dining scene – and an easy stroll to bed at the end of it, too.

*All outbound V/Line services listed depart from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station. Travel times are approximate – check Transport Victoria for the latest timetables.