Department of Transport - COVID-19 Update

Transport update: what you need to know as we respond to coronavirus

As restrictions are gradually eased, all Victorians are being asked to play their part to keep each other safe and that includes making responsible choices about using our public transport network.

When it comes to work, the message remains the same: if you can work from home, you must continue working from home.

We have run our full timetable throughout the coronavirus pandemic and that will continue so that people have choices about when they travel. 

We’ve increased cleaning, with a focus on the places passengers spend the most time. We’ll continue doing this for as long as it’s needed.

These measures are providing all Victorians with safe, clean options to make their journeys. We ask everyone to plan their best journey and to recognise their responsibility to other people on public transport. Here’s everything you need to know:

Plan ahead and allow extra time

Plan your trip using 

Journey Planner

 or the 

PTV app

You can check timetables and we have real-time departure information for our metro train, tram and bus services.

Follow the advice: 

• If you feel unwell, stay at home and get tested
• Travel outside peak times if you can (7.30am – 9.15am and 4.30pm – 6.15pm), as this can help with physical distancing
• Practise good hand hygiene and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough, or otherwise into your elbow
• Keep your distance, where you can
• Respect the clearance zone around our drivers
• Use every fourth step on the escalator and don’t pass others
• Spread out along the platform
• Avoid busy waiting rooms. Bring an umbrella if it’s raining
• Keep doorways clear
• Download the COVIDSafe app and have it active while you travel

Keep up to date with information related to travel while the coronavirus is still with us. Check out ptv.vic.gov.au/coronavirus for the latest information.

We’re making sure all public transport is cleaned deeply and regularly.

We’ve increased cleaning, with a focus on the places passengers spend the most time. We’re cleaning high touch surfaces like next stop buttons, door handles, myki touch points, handrails and grab straps regularly and deep-cleaning trains, trams and buses, stations and stops every night, until further notice.

Before you touch on, check your myki card at a myki machine to ensure you’re topped up and ready to go.

Our staff are not handling cash, but there are still plenty of ways to top up your myki or purchase a ticket.

• Top up at myki card vending machines located at all stations
• By using a credit or debit card with our staff
• On the PTV website

Regional customers on trains or buses can purchase tickets using a credit or debit card with staff at any station or by visiting the V/Line website.

Cash can still be used at myki card vending machines across the public transport network.

Consider walking

Are you one of the many Victorians who have enjoyed walking or cycling around your neighbourhood during the coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions?

Consider walking or cycling if your trip is short. Walking routes and journey time information are available on the 

PTV app

Travelling on trams and buses

When travelling on trams and buses:

• Don’t sit in the seat directly behind the driver
• Wait for passengers to get off before you board
• At stops, keep your distance from others who are waiting

If it’s raining, take an umbrella so you don’t need to gather under shelters.

Back to school

School buses have been running throughout Term 2 for students who need to get to school.

Extra cleaning is happening on all school buses including nightly sanitation.

When travelling on a school bus your child should:

• Sit next to their siblings
• Practise good hand hygiene and cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when they cough, or otherwise into their elbow
• Children should stay home if they are unwell

We are working closely with our transport operators and the Department of Education and Training to ensure the transition back to school and face-to-face learning is simple.

Need more?

For more information on how you can travel safely during coronavirus visit the PTV website.

https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/more/coronavirus-covid-19/