Tender for new go card technology

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the government would be seeking an expression of interest to expand the existing network of go card retailers.

“I believe the technology is now available to allow go cards to be topped up through existing electronic payment methods,” Mr Emerson said.

“We will go out to tender for a next generation retail contract that could potentially see go cards integrated with supermarkets, grocery chains, petrol stations, newsagents or additional convenience stores.

“Availability of go cards facilities is one of the biggest issues people raise with me and this would deliver more options to purchase, top-up, check their balance or change expiry dates.”

go cards are currently available at more than 580 locations, however under the contract signed by the previous Labor government, there are significant costs in installing and operating current retail-based go card top-up machines.

Mr Emerson said there was demand for these facilities from newsagents and retailers, however the cost was restricting the expansion of the network.

“This first step would also look to resolve compatibility and security issues with integrating different technology,” he said.

“It’s an attractive proposition with the commercial benefit to retailers of additional foot traffic generated by more than 40,000 go card top-ups daily.”

A request for expression of interest is expected to be released in the coming weeks, with submissions following soon after.

For more information, visit www.translink.com.au or phone 13 12 30, anytime.

Media Contact: Andrew Berkman 0429 128 637