WA: New SmartRider System

[ozbob]

WA Today --> Mobile payments on the cards for new SmartRider system

The death knell is sounding for the current iteration of the Public Transport Authority's longstanding cashless ticketing system, smart rider.

The system was introduced in 2007 and is currently used by 85 per cent of peak hour passengers, and about 80 per cent non-peak passengers.

However, with the planning and construction of new Metronet lines under way the state government is spending $34 million on new cashless ticketing devices and a new card system that could allow for features like mobile phone payments.

Installation of the new devices will begin in 2019, with the first expected to be in place by the middle of the year.

The new system will require passengers to swap their old SmartRider with a new one.

The PTA have confirmed this will be done free of charge and passengers will be given several months to swap over before the upgraded system comes into effect.

PTA spokesman David Hynes said SmartRider had been the most reliable and successful cashless transport ticketing system in the country, but needed upgrading.

"As happens with all technology, it must eventually be upgraded to meet current standards," he said.

"The upgraded system will feature more sophisticated security technologies."

Mr Hynes said Transperth was also investigating the inclusion of flexible payment options such as smartphone or debit or credit card tag-on capabilities.

"The contactless card and mobile phone pay-as-you-go system could be similar to the system that has been successfully implemented by Transport for London," he said.

[verbatim9]

Excellent news for WA and Perth!

[ozbob]

Different world Transperth.  I have used SmartRider a few times now.  Has been faultless for me.  This will make a good system even better.

[ozbob]

6PR --> SmartRider gets an upgrade

Australia's most successful cashless ticketing system is being upgraded.

Public Transport Authority spokesman David Hynes told Chris the $34 million injection will be help create flexible payment options.

Podcast > here !