Using public transport

There are several security measures in place to help keep you safe on public transport, including guards, emergency assistance buttons, adequate lighting, and security cameras. Most drivers have two-way radios and can call for assistance. And Victoria Police Protective Services Officers (PSOs) patrol Melbourne’s train network from 6 pm every night until the last scheduled service.

When you use public transport, it’s always best to:

  • check timetables in advance and, if you have a long wait, stay in a well-lit area or near an open shop
  • if travelling alone, plan your trip and tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return home
  • at night, sit in a location nearest to the driver or staff
  • know the locations of emergency assistance buttons
  • place possessions on your lap if seated or at your feet if standing, and keep an eye on them.

Travelling on trains, trams or buses

  • Purchase the full-fare myki card*
  • Always have credit on your myki card to avoid a fine
  • Always tap on at the start of your trip and tap off at the end for buses and trains. You do not need to tap off on a tram.
  • Trams are free in the Melbourne Central Business District (CBD)

* If you are under 18, you may be eligible for a children’s card, valid until you turn 19. For more information, please visit.

Authorised officers (ticket inspectors) are responsible for ensuring you have a valid myki card and are following public transport laws and regulations. They usually wear a uniform, but can also be in casual clothes (they must carry Metro identification).

They can:

  • Ask to see your myki card
  • Ask you for your name, address and proof of identity
  • Issue a fine if you don’t have a valid myki or are breaking the public transport laws.

Travelling by taxi or rideshare

  • Before entering a taxi, note its ID number (on the number plate and the side of the vehicle) and ensure the driver has a photo ID with a 6-digit driver number (displayed inside the car).
  • Before you enter a rideshare car, make sure its registration number and driver match what you were given in the app, and ask who they’re waiting for before revealing your name.
  • Tell the driver the route you wish to take to your destination and then follow along with your own GPS.
  • Ask the driver to start the meter for the fare.
  • Sit in the back seat so you can easily exit the vehicle in case of a dangerous situation.
  • Choose your preferred company and driver (you have the right to cancel your rideshare or taxi if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable). It's best to choose a rideshare company that performs background checks on its drivers.

On a weekend night, you can catch a taxi at one of Melbourne’s ‘Safe City’ taxi ranks:

  • Queen Street – between Little Collins and Bourke Streets
  • Flinders Street Station – on Swanston Street opposite Federation Square
  • 190 Bourke Street – near Russell Street
  • 8 King Street – between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane.

For additional tips, see public transport safety on the Victoria Police website.

Bicycle Safety

If you are riding a bicycle

  • Always wear a helmet
  • Your bicycle must have lights and a bell
  • Stay in the bike lanes
  • You are also expected to obey bicycle road rules.

Car safety

  • If you are under 18, you are not permitted to hold a full Victorian driver’s licence or to drive a car
  • If you are over 18 and would like to drive in Australia, visit vicroads.vic.gov.au for details
  • Drivers must never use a mobile phone when driving
  • Every passenger must wear their seat belt
  • The driver must follow the road rules and the speed limit.

For more information about driving in Victoria, visit vicroads.vic.gov.au/licences

  • Always lock your car.
  • Check inside your car before you get in.
  • Regularly change where you park.
  • Always have your car key in hand before entering the car park.
  • Don’t leave any valuables, such as a backpack or laptop, in your vehicle. If you really have to, place them in the boot of your car.

Helping others

Our community here at Monash is all about respect, safety, and looking out for one another. There are many ways we can be an active bystander when we witness violence, abuse or unacceptable behaviour.

As an Active Bystander, you should:

  • assess the situation and intervene if it’s safe
  • listen to the person who is being harmed and ask them how you can support them
  • address the issue directly or distract the person causing the problem to make sure the person at risk is alright (if it’s safe to do so)
  • delegate to someone with authority (e.g. police or security) by reporting the incident
  • use the Monash bSafe app to contact emergency services, or use the resource section to find out what to do next
  • let the person who is affected know about the support options available to them
  • follow up with the person who is affected at a later stage (if possible).