Annual Opal fare changes come into effect

The annual update to Opal fares will come into effect from Monday 16 October, with some fares to increase, and new benefits including cheaper Friday travel coming into effect.

Transport for NSW Executive Director Customer Systems and Operations Lewis Clark said it is important passengers are prepared for the fare changes and understand the new benefits so they can get the most from them.

“From Monday, fares across the Opal network will be changing, with an average increase of 3.7 per cent, which will see an average difference of $1 to a passenger’s weekly fare,” Mr Clark said. 

“Regular travellers can enjoy the same weekly travel cap, which will remain at $50 for adults and $25 for concession card holders and children. 

“Seniors and pensioners are assured there will be no change to their long-standing $2.50 daily cap. 

“Due to a significant drop in uptake, the half price fare after eight journeys benefit will be retired. This is because Opal data shows travel habits have shifted post-COVID and nearly 90 per cent of passengers are not unlocking this discount. We want to deliver Opal benefits that best match the way passengers are using our network.

“Instead, we’re introducing weekend fares on Fridays. This means from next week people can travel all day on Friday for no more than $8.90 and receive a 30 per cent fare discount on metro, train, bus and light rail services. All-day Opal travel for children and concession card holders will be capped at $4.45 on Fridays.

“No-one likes a fare increase, but to have a healthy and robust public transport network we need to ensure we can suitability deliver these services. We’ve done our best to deliver a fare change that minimises the hip-pocket impact on customers, while accommodating increased operating costs including the cost of fuel, electricity, maintenance, and staffing.”

The annual fare adjustments, which sit within parameters set by the Independent Pricing And Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), will see Opal fares across the network rise by an average of 3.7 per cent, less than the latest annual Sydney consumer price index movement of 7 per cent in the June 2023 quarter.

The Station Access Fee set by the Airport Link Company for using the Domestic and International Airport train stations will also increase to $16.68 for Adults and $14.92 for Child/Youth, Concessions and Senior fares.

For more information about Opal fares visit transportnsw.info/opal and fare estimates for multimodal trips can be calculated at transportnsw.info/trip

Example Adult fare changes:

*Peak times Monday to Friday

Sydney metro/train network, buses and light rail: 6:30-10am, 3pm-7pm Intercity Trains: 6am-10am, 3pm-7pm

Table of new Opal fares caps from 16 October 2023: