The Cook Government is set to enhance public transport in Perth by inviting eligible passengers to participate in a trial of contactless payment technology. This initiative aims to test the viability of credit and debit card payments on the region’s public transport network, with a planned rollout to the general public by the end of the year.
The Public Transport Authority has commenced a two-week recruitment drive seeking 50 regular ferry users to pilot the new payment system. This trial will include the use of credit and debit cards, as well as payments via smartphone digital wallets, smartwatches, and other wearable devices. To qualify, participants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid Mastercard or Visa card registered in their name.
Trial Details and Incentives
The ferry trial is scheduled to begin later this month. Following this initial phase, the program will expand to include buses and trains, with an additional recruitment of 150 participants for this next stage. Trial participants will need to register their debit or credit card and use it to tag on and off during their public transport journeys. They will be charged the standard cash ticket fare for each trip completed.
As an incentive for their participation, individuals will receive e-gift cards for each survey completed and complimentary parking at all train station car parks throughout the trial period.
This trial represents a significant advancement in the Cook Government’s SmartRider Upgrade Project, which aims to integrate contactless payment options into the wider public transport network by the end of the year. The enhancements will complement Transperth’s existing SmartRider system, which has been in place for over 18 years.
Government Commitment to Public Transport Accessibility
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti emphasized the importance of this trial in making public transport more accessible and affordable for residents. She stated, “This trial is an important step forward in our government’s efforts to make public transport more accessible and affordable. Passengers taking part in this trial will play a key role in testing the readiness of new contactless payment methods across our transport network before they are made available to the wider community by the end of the year.”
The SmartRider Upgrade Project marks the largest enhancement to the system since its introduction in 2007, which is expected to streamline the process of tagging on and off public transport. Additionally, a flat fare system will be implemented starting January 1, 2024, further reducing costs for Western Australians using public transport.
For more information on the trial and how to participate, visit the Transperth website at https://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/SmartRider/SmartRider-Upgrade-Project.
