A blistering report has exposed the ACT government's botched rollout of the MyWay ticketing system, revealing a litany of failures that left Canberra's public transport users stranded with a flawed system.
The investigation uncovered that the much-anticipated smartcard system was launched despite known technical issues and inadequate planning, creating ongoing headaches for commuters and costing taxpayers significantly more than originally budgeted.
What Went Wrong with MyWay?
The report highlights several critical failures in the system's implementation:
- Rushed rollout despite unresolved technical problems
- Inadequate testing before public launch
- Poor communication with both bus drivers and passengers
- Budget blowouts that saw costs soar beyond initial estimates
Commuters Bear the Brunt
Canberra residents faced numerous challenges during the transition to the new system. Many experienced issues with card top-ups, faulty validators, and confusion about the new fare structure. The problems were particularly acute during peak travel times, causing delays and frustration for daily commuters.
Lessons for Future Projects
The scathing assessment serves as a cautionary tale for government technology implementations. Experts suggest that proper planning, thorough testing, and stakeholder consultation are essential for successful public transport upgrades.
As Canberra continues to grow and modernise its public transport network, the MyWay experience provides valuable insights into what not to do when implementing new systems that affect thousands of residents daily.
