'It's time to go': Queensland retires go cards as new ticketing system rolls in

Queensland's public transport system is on the brink of a significant transformation.

This change heralds a new era of convenience and technology for public transport users, and here's an exclusive sneak peek into what you can expect from this upgrade.


After serving commuters in Queensland faithfully for over a decade, the go cards are making way for a new Translink card system.

The go card, first trialled in 2006 and widely implemented in 2008, has been the cornerstone of public transport fare payment across buses, ferries, trains, and trams.

However, the need for a more modern solution has become apparent.

The Translink card will meet this need, offering a seamless transition for current go card users while introducing new features that promise to enhance the public transport experience.


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The Translink card system is now available in key areas of Queensland, enabling commuters to pay via their debit and credit cards, and smartphones via contactless payments. Image Credit: Facebook: Transport and Main Roads Queensland


One development is the ability to link the Translink card to smart devices—an appealing feature for tech-savvy commuters who appreciate the convenience of digital wallets and contactless payments.

It is also a great emergency measure for commuters who accidentally left their cards at home.

The introduction of the Translink card is part of a broader smart ticketing initiative that has been gradually rolling out across the network.

This initiative enables commuters to use their credit cards, debit cards, or smart devices for fare payment, streamlining the process and reducing the need for physical tickets.

While the exact timeline for the full implementation of the Translink card is yet to be finalised, Translink has assured customers that the transition will be announced soon.


The new card is about keeping up with the times—with faster data processing, advanced privacy, and data security features.

These improvements are crucial in an age where data breaches are a genuine concern, and the need for secure transactions is paramount.

Fear not for those who may be worried about the fate of their current go card balance.

Translink has confirmed that refunds will be available anytime, provided you have the physical card or it is registered.

This refund process ensures the new system will not leave anyone out of pocket.

Translink also said that concession fares, such as those for seniors, will remain available on the new system.


The smart ticketing system is available on Brisbane ferries, CityCats, trams, and trains, with buses set to follow suit.

Over 153 million trips were taken on South East Queensland's public transport network last year, highlighting the importance of a robust and user-friendly fare system.

The Translink card is poised to meet the needs of today's commuters, offering a glimpse into the future of public transport.
Key Takeaways

  • Go cards will be phased out in South East Queensland and replaced by a new Translink card system.
  • The Translink card can be linked to smart devices, enabling commuters to travel without a physical card.
  • The new card will offer faster data processing, enhanced privacy and advanced data security features.
  • The exact timeline for replacing the go card with the Translink card is still being determined, and will include all fares soon.
What are your thoughts on transitioning from go cards to Translink cards? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments section below.
 
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Anything that requires a mobile phone is out of the question..... I refuse to take my phone out of the house....
 
  • Haha
Reactions: freedy50
In this day & age it makes sense but, once again, they've forgotten that many older people don't have a mobile, or aren't computer savvy. Some don't even have a debit/credit card. Thus, they rely on having a physical card. Once they're phased out, how are they supposed to use public transport?!
 
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Reactions: GLORIA 01
"The new card is about keeping up with the times—with faster data processing, advanced privacy, and data security features."

Yet more convenience for scammers (and government that likes to know everything about honest people). $16.2 billion scammed today! The motto of the "digital" age.
 
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Reactions: GLORIA 01
How do Seniors,uneducated in the usage of Magic Machines like my dumb self Aquire a new,Magic , TransLink card,and does our money transfer automatically? Thank You,Kind Regards,Keep Safe,Lee Paterson.
 
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Reactions: Rob44
Why dont we have a national public transport card. Then travelling between states would be simplier. The MYKI in Victoria is a joke.
We did. It was called Cash. Australian dollars and Australian cents (although cents won't get you very far these days....), recognised everywhere in our Nation.
 
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Reactions: Rob44
We did. It was called Cash. Australian dollars and Australian cents (although cents won't get you very far these days....), recognised everywhere in our Nation.
I so agree with you.

Problem is that things that work (cash, Go Cards and bank plastic cards for example), have to go in the name of progress.

Is the new Translink Card an actual card or is it a phone app that's linked to your credit or debit card?

Clarification would be appreciated 🤔.

If it's on your phone, that just adds to the raft of things now on phones. God help you if the phone goes missing.
 
I trust that the Go cards won't be Stop cards if one loses one's social credit with whatever misgovernment runs QLD.
 
We did. It was called Cash. Australian dollars and Australian cents (although cents won't get you very far these days....), recognised everywhere in our Nation.
MYKI was once owned by an Israeli Company, so I heard. More recently I have heard that it has a PR Chinese shareholding.
 

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