What is public transport?

Public transport in Australia is operated by the states and territories rather than the federal government, with each capital city running its own network of trains, trams, buses, and ferries. Sydney's network is run by Transport for NSW under the Opal card, Melbourne's by the Department of Transport and Planning under the Myki card, Brisbane's by Translink under the Go card, Adelaide's by the Adelaide Metro under the Metrocard, Perth's by Transperth under the SmartRider, and Hobart's by Metro Tasmania under the Greencard.

Each city's network has its own character. Sydney's network is the most extensive, with 12 train lines and a light rail network, plus the Sydney Metro that started full operation in 2024. Melbourne has the world's largest tram network with 250 kilometres of track and 24 lines. Brisbane operates Australia's only dedicated busway network and a high-frequency ferry service called the CityCat. Adelaide and Perth have smaller train networks supplemented by extensive bus services. Hobart and Darwin rely primarily on buses, with no urban rail.

Fares are usually charged by zone or distance, with concession rates for students, pensioners, concession card holders, and children. Most networks now accept tap-and-pay using credit and debit cards alongside the local smartcard. Daily, weekly, and monthly fare caps are common, ensuring frequent users do not pay more than a set maximum. Children under five travel free in most networks.

Inter-city public transport is provided by long-distance trains, coaches, and domestic flights. The Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth), the Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin), the Spirit of Queensland (Brisbane to Cairns), and the Overland (Melbourne to Adelaide) are the main long-distance rail services. NSW TrainLink, V/Line in Victoria, Queensland Rail, and Transwa in WA operate regional rail networks. Coaches by Greyhound, Premier, and various regional operators connect regional centres. The federal government regulates aviation but does not operate any airline since the privatisation of Qantas in 1995.