Victoria’s new $2 billion contactless public transport ticketing system has come under scrutiny after a major loophole was found that could allow fare evaders to avoid detection.

The issue stems from outdated handheld scanners still used by some authorised officers, which can only verify traditional Myki cards and cannot check passengers who pay using bank cards, smartphones, or smartwatches.

As a result, inspectors are reportedly unable to confirm whether some commuters have actually tapped on, raising concerns that people could falsely claim to have paid and avoid penalties.

The Victorian Government says new EMV-compatible scanners are being rolled out across the network, but has not confirmed when every inspector will receive the upgraded devices.

Officials said authorised officers are currently focused on helping passengers adapt to the new tap-and-go system while the technology rollout continues. Meanwhile, more than one million contactless trips have already been recorded since the system was introduced.

The tap-and-go payment system is also being expanded to 37 regional V/Line stations later this year, although concession passengers will continue using Myki cards until full account-based ticketing is introduced in late 2027.