The ACT government is seeking legal advice over the botched MyWay+ public transport system rollout, as contractor NEC Australia missed a key project milestone. NEC was required to complete 'Milestone 29' of the 30-stage ticketing upgrade by November 1, but the government confirmed that 'not all components' have been achieved.
The contract, originally valued at $64 million when signed in February 2023, has been varied twice. The government is now assessing NEC's compliance with the terms, though the exact amount owed for the milestone remains undisclosed. Officials will also seek independent assurance on the project's usability over the coming months.
NEC stated it continues to work closely with the ACT government and will cooperate fully with review processes. The company described the outstanding tasks as part of normal delivery and acceptance procedures for large digital transformation projects.
The MyWay+ system, launched in November 2024, was intended to provide cashless fare payment and real-time passenger information. However, the rollout has been plagued by problems, including broken ticket readers and blank digital displays, leading to lost revenue. Transport Minister Chris Steel was censured by the Legislative Assembly last month after a scathing report on the failures.
The government also confirmed that four custom buses still lack MyWay+ hardware, with installation expected by end of 2025. Another 22 buses due for retirement are also without the new hardware. Additionally, two senior officials overseeing the rollout have left the ACT public service voluntarily during machinery of government changes this year.
