Metcard operator offers to replace troubled Myki in Victoria
Vix Technology, which manages the technology for metcard and numerous international transport ticketing systems, has offered the Victorian government a replacement for myki that will not cost taxpayers or government an extra cent.
"We can help the government solve the biggest transport mess in Victoria's history," the company said today.
"We will save the government more than $100 million and eliminate any financial risk for the government in a changeover of systems," said Steve Gallagher, CEO of Vix Technology.
The Vix Technology offer was made last week to transport minister Terry Mulder and senior bureaucrats in the departments of Transport, Treasury and Finance and Premier and Cabinet.
Vix Technology is offering to replace the myki system and extend the metcard system through Victoria's bus, tram and train services while its global smartcard system is introduced.
The roll out would begin within six months and be completed within 12-18 months.
"We will provide a world class public transport fare collection service based on proven technology and without time overruns or any upfront cost to Victoria," Mr. Gallagher said.
"We will provide a quick solution and restore the confidence of Victorians in the fare collection system," he said.
"For passengers we offer an efficient, reliable, effective and soon a considerably quicker swipe card system.
"For the government and taxpayers we offer a cost effective system with no up front costs and savings of around $100 million."
Mr. Gallagher estimated that his company could also recover between $70 million and $100 million in costs for the government from the remnants of the current myki system.
"All this will be undertaken in consultation with the government, the various transport providers and the transport users association," he said.
"We also plan to introduce multiple fare payment options including contactless credit cards and mobile phones," Mr. Gallagher said.