If you’re planning to study in Australia, understanding how public transportation works across major cities is essential. Whether you want to explore your new city, commute to class, or discover local attractions, Australia offers reliable and affordable transport options—and in some cases, even free travel.
Recently, Victoria announced an exciting update: all weekend public transport across the state is free from early December until February 1, 2026. This includes Melbourne’s trains, trams, and buses. Passengers won’t need to tap on or off with a myki card during weekends, as barriers will remain open and a zero fare will automatically apply. Some V/Line regional services still require a free seat reservation, but overall this initiative makes exploring Melbourne and Victoria easier for students and travelers.
Public Transport in Sydney
Sydney offers one of the most extensive transit networks in Australia. Students can get around easily using a combination of trains, buses, ferries, light rail, and the modern Sydney Metro. The entire network operates on the Opal card, though you can also tap with a debit card, credit card, or smartphone. Sydney’s ferries are especially popular with international students for their scenic routes across the harbour. With ongoing upgrades and new metro lines, Sydney continues to improve its accessibility and travel times for commuters.
Public Transport in Brisbane
Brisbane’s system is managed by TransLink, which integrates trains, buses, ferries, and the new Brisbane Metro (a high-frequency bus rapid transit service). Students use a Go Card or tap-and-pay options to access the entire network. Brisbane is also known for its affordable fares, including discounted student pricing and periodic fare-reduction programs that make daily commuting cheaper and more convenient.
