Public transport fares, concessions and assistance

Travelling by public transport in Sydney and surrounds

Opal cards

You can use an Opal card to pay for travel on public transport in Sydney. Opal cards are smartcard tickets and they can be used on public transport in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, the Hunter and the Illawarra. 

You can get an Opal card at some retailers such as convenience stores and supermarkets, airport stations and major city stations such as Central Station. Or, you can order one online.

There are benefits available if you use an Opal card, including that fares are capped at certain times and if you are eligible for concessional travel. 

Learn how to get and manage an Opal card

Pay using a credit or debit card, or a device

You can also pay adult fares on the Sydney and surrounds public transport network using a credit card, debit card or connected device. 

The same benefits as using an Opal card apply when you use a credit or debit card, or device.

Learn more about contactless payments

Most passengers eligible for concession and senior/pensioner fares can link their concession entitlement to a credit card, debit card or device to pay their fare.

Learn more about contactless concessions

Concessions 

Depending on your age or situation, you may be eligible for discounted travel on public transport. 

Check the concession fares or free travel available

Regional travel

If you have a proof of concession entitlement, you may be able to get concession fares on regional transport. For example:

• Deals and discounts for train and coach trips in regional NSW may be available.
• Pensioner travel vouchers are available to eligible concession card holders.

Travel assistance programs

There are a number of government programs available to help with travel arrangements where public transport may not be the best option:

• Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS)
• Vocational Training Assistance Scheme (VTAS) – for apprentices or new entrant trainees
• Assisted School Travel Program (ASTP)
• Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme

More savings and assistance

• Concessions, rebates and assistance services
• Disability assistance – Transport
• NSW Seniors Card or Senior Savers Card
• Learn to swim program
  For multicultural communities, First Nations people and people in regional or disadvantaged areas.
• Guides
  • Finding lost money
  • Losing your wallet
  • Domestic and family violence