Canberra’s public transport smart ticketing system, MyWay+, will be in place by the end of the year, the ACT Government has announced.

MyWay+ is expected to begin operations in November. New equipment will be installed across the Transport Canberra network and fleet at the start of October.

“This includes hardware like validators, driver consoles, and ticket vending machines at light rail stations and major interchanges,” transport minister Chris Steel said.

“Throughout this installation phase during October and November, no fares will be collected from passengers to allow a seamless switchover to the new service expected for full launch in November.”

The ACT Government signed a contract in February with technology company NEC Australia to design the system. The Canberra Liberals, however, have argued that the government announced a similar system seven years ago.

“MyWay+ will provide journey planning, real-time passenger information and it will include simple ticketing options such as being able to tap on and off on your phone, smart watches and debit or credit card,” Mr Steel said.

MyWay+ has the following features:

Simple payment options
1.    Tap on and off bus or light rail using debit cards, credit cards or devices such as phones and smart watches. 
2.    Manage travel, concession and payment details through a secure account.
3.    Ability to still purchase paper tickets from ticket vending machines as well as physical 
MyWay+ cards from a greater number of retail agents across Canberra.

Real-time passenger information
1.    Find accurate and reliable information on each bus and light rail service.
2.    Subscribe to personalised messages and alerts such as service delays.
3.    View real time information online or through a mobile app.

Journey planning
1.    Plan a journey across buses, light rail, cycling, walking, and in the future, e-scooters, rideshare and taxi.
2.    Check accessibility options at stops, stations, paths and walkways.
3.    Future tailored journeys based on cost, duration, carbon footprint and walking distance.

The new equipment has been installed on four new electric ‘demonstration buses’ – a key milestone, Mr Steel said.

“It will allow our bus drivers to understand the MyWay+ functions and support the technology to ‘learn’ our public transport network by collecting geo-location data.”

If a demonstration bus arrives at their stop for their regular service, Canberrans can ride for free, with no need to tap on and off with their existing MyWay card.

“As we prepare for the MyWay+ switchover later in the year, Canberrans should continue using their existing MyWay cards for bus and light rail services,” Mr Steel said.

“I also urge them to register their existing MyWay card if they have not already done so, to assist in balance transfers and refunds when the new system comes online.

“The switch to MyWay+ has many components, so we will work closely with the community and a range of stakeholder groups to ensure a seamless transition.

“The introduction of MyWay+, combined with a significantly expanded electric bus fleet, will transform public transport in Canberra and make it an even more attractive choice for commuters.”

Transport Canberra will provide regular updates on the transition process to the new MyWay+ system, including balance transfers and refunds, in the coming months.

For more information, visit transport.act.gov.au/mywayplus.