How to get around Australia
Navigating Australia is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
For travelling long distances across Australia, flying is often the quickest option, though it can be more expensive. Major domestic airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Rex service major cities and regional areas. Jetstar is a low-cost carrier, often offering more affordable fares. Prices for domestic flights vary by distance and season.
For budget-conscious travellers, long-distance buses like Greyhound Australia and Premier Motor Service are available, especially along the east coast. Bus tickets can be very cheap if booked in advance. Train travel is also an option for intercity journeys and is generally considered affordable.
For example, the 'Spirit of Tasmania' ferry connects Melbourne to Devonport, Tasmania. Passenger prices typically range from around $280 in winter to $540 in summer for a return ticket, with vehicle transport costing extra. Campervan and motorhome rentals offer flexibility for self-guided road trips. Rental costs typically range from $40 to $300 per day, depending on the size and features of the vehicle, and the season. Longer rental periods often result in lower daily rates.
Travel Within Cities
Within Australian cities, public transport systems are generally the cheapest way to travel. Most major cities have reliable bus networks, and larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth also offer trains and trams.
Fares typically range from AUD 2.20 to AUD 12.80 for a single trip, depending on the city, mode of transport, and whether you use a cash ticket or a pre-paid transport card. Using a transport card (like Sydney's Opal Card, Melbourne's Myki, or Perth's SmartRider) often provides discounts and daily/weekly fare caps, making travel more economical. Some cities may even offer free public transport within their city centres.
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber, Ola, and DiDi are more expensive but offer convenience. Car rental is another option for getting around cities and exploring surrounding areas, with daily costs generally ranging from $20 to $120, influenced by the car type, location, and time of year. Rental prices can be higher in popular cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
