Weekly travel caps remain as annual opal fare rise comes into effect

The annual public transport fare increase will come into effect on 1 July 2024, with Opal prices to rise by an average of 3.6 per cent, in line with the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) movement but under the maximum set by IPART, while the weekly travel cap will remain the same.

For Adult users, fares for train and metro trips will increase by no more than 49 cents, 27 cents for bus and light rail trips and 43 cents for a ferry trip, depending on the distance and whether travelling on or off-peak.

For Child/Youth and Concession card holders, fares for train and metro trips will increase by no more than 24 cents, 14 cents for bus or light rail and 22 cents for the ferry.

With Opal discounts and caps applied, the cost increase for the majority of commuters is less than $1 per week.

Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said the changes are in line with the CPI and complies with the maximum Opal fare determination from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

“Each year, fares are reviewed to ensure the network can continue to operate sustainably, keeping up with increased operating costs including fuel, electricity, maintenance, and staffing.

“Public and active transport remain some of the most affordable ways to get around. These increases will ensure Transport for NSW is able to continue to invest in delivering reliable services for passengers.”

Regular public transport users will continue to benefit from unchanged weekly travel caps to unlock free trips, transfer discounts and cheaper travel on Fridays.

“The weekly fare cap will stay at $50 for Adults and $25 for Child/Youth and Concession card holders. Seniors and Pensioners will continue to be charged no more than $2.50 per day,” Mr Murray said.

“Weekend fares on Fridays will still apply, meaning Friday fares will be capped at $9.35 for all Adults and $4.65 for Child/Youth and Concession card holders for the whole day.”

Short bus and light rail journey fares up to three kilometres will also remain unchanged, and the transfer discount for switching between modes within 60 minutes will still apply.

The Station Access Fee set by the Airport Link Company for using the Domestic and International Airport train stations will also increase to $17.34 for Adults and $15.50 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 train fare changes:

Example bus, ferry, and light rail fare changes:

Table of new Opal fares caps from 1 July 2024: