The smartcard system will begin a full trial in August
The technology for Canberra, Australia’s new smartcard ticketing system, is now being put into its ACTION buses ahead a of full trial of the system scheduled for late August.
Jon Stanhope, Australia’s Chief Minister and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, told GovMonitor that said that the program is "fast, easy and flexible" and allows people to travel on city buses without carrying coins or cash.
He sold the site that the smartcard contains a microchip that can be read by the reader through a wallet or purse, and deduct the money automatically, while also ensuring that passengers pay the lowest available fare.
Stanhope also said that casual riders and tourists will be able to buy a one-time ticket for use in the machines.
Squidcard.com adds that funds can never be lost, because officials will be able to transfer funds to a new card if the old one is lost or stolen.
The Canberra Times says the new system replaces the current Wayfarer system, which has suffered repeated break downs since it was installed in 1995.
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