Transportation Guide

Everything you need to know about navigating Sydney's public transport system

Sydney Transport Overview

Sydney has a comprehensive public transportation network that includes trains, buses, light rail, and ferries. The entire system is integrated with the Opal card payment system, making it convenient to travel across different modes of transport.

Network Coverage: Sydney's public transport network covers most of the metropolitan area with extensive services to major suburbs. UNSW's Kensington campus is well connected by buses and light rail services.

Transport Modes in Sydney

  • Trains: Connect major suburbs and the city center
  • Buses: Provide extensive coverage throughout Sydney, including direct routes to UNSW
  • Light Rail: The L2 and L3 lines connect UNSW to Central Station and other locations
  • Ferries: Operate on Sydney Harbour and Parramatta River
  • Taxis & Ride-sharing: Available throughout Sydney (Uber, Ola, DiDi, etc.)

Important: Public transport service frequencies typically reduce on weekends and public holidays. Always check the Transport NSW app or website for updated timetables and service alerts.

Getting Your Opal Card

The Opal card is Sydney's electronic ticketing system used across all public transport. It's essential for regular travel in Sydney and offers benefits like fare caps and transfer discounts.

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Choose Your Opal Card Type

As an international student, you have two main Opal card options:

Card Type Benefits How to Get It
Adult Opal Card Standard fares, weekly travel caps, no expiry Available at newsagents, convenience stores, and transport hubs
Concession Opal Card Half-price fares, weekly travel caps, no expiry Apply online after enrolling at UNSW and obtaining your student ID

Concession Eligibility for International Students

International students at UNSW are eligible for travel concessions, which provide approximately 50% off regular adult fares. To be eligible, you must:

  • Be enrolled full-time at UNSW (minimum 12 units of credit per semester)
  • Have a valid student ID card
  • Apply through the UNSW student portal after enrollment

Transport Routes to UNSW

Light Rail (Recommended)

The light rail is the newest and often most convenient way to reach UNSW:

Buses

Several bus routes service UNSW directly:

From Sydney Airport

When you first arrive at Sydney Airport, these are your main options to reach UNSW or your accommodation:

Understanding Opal Fares & Benefits

Fare Structure

Opal fares are calculated based on:

Money-Saving Benefits

Common Journey Costs (with Concession Opal)

Journey Adult Fare Concession Fare
Central Station to UNSW (Light Rail) $4.00 $2.00
Bondi Junction to UNSW (Bus) $3.20 $1.60
Circular Quay to UNSW (Train + Light Rail) $5.20 $2.60
Airport to UNSW (Train + Light Rail) $19.60 $17.80

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply for my Concession Opal card?
Apply for your Concession Opal card as soon as you receive your student ID card and have confirmed your enrollment status. Processing can take up to 2 weeks, so it's best to apply early.
Can I use my credit/debit card instead of an Opal card?
Yes, you can tap on and off with your credit/debit card or mobile payment, but you won't receive concession fares or weekly travel rewards. For regular travel, an Opal card is recommended.
What happens if I forget to tap off?
If you forget to tap off, you'll be charged a default fare, which is usually the maximum fare for that mode of transport. Always remember to tap on and off to ensure you're charged the correct fare.
How do I plan my journey?
Use the Transport NSW trip planner through their website or app. It provides real-time updates, service disruptions, and helps you find the fastest or most convenient route to your destination.

Useful Transportation Apps

  • Transport NSW

    Official app for trip planning, real-time updates, and service alerts

  • Opal Travel

    Check your Opal card balance, top up, and view trip history

  • TripView

    Popular third-party app for timetables and real-time tracking

Transportation Safety Tips

  • Always stand behind the yellow line on train platforms and light rail stops
  • Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • Save emergency contact numbers in your phone: 000 for emergencies, 131 500 for transport info
  • If traveling late at night, try to sit near the guard's compartment on trains or near the driver on buses
  • Use well-lit and busy stops/stations when traveling at night

Night Ride buses replace some train services after midnight. These are regular route buses that accept Opal cards and provide a safe way to travel late at night.