Brisbane is growing fast, with over 2.6 million people now calling this subtropical city home. But with that boom comes packed roads, longer commutes, and rising car ownership costs.
According to the Australian Automobile Association’s Transport Affordability Index, the average weekly cost of owning and running a car in Brisbane is around $263.22; that’s more than $13,600 a year.
So, is there a smarter, more affordable way to get around Brisbane?
Absolutely. Brisbane’s public transport network is your ticket (literally) to escaping traffic, cutting costs, and seeing the city from a whole new angle. Whether you’re a local ready to ditch the car or a visitor chasing an epic adventure, this guide will show you how to do it.
Let’s jump in.
How Brisbane Public Transport Works
Brisbane’s public transport system is coordinated by TransLink, which oversees buses, trains, ferries, and the newly launched Brisbane Metro.
The entire public transport network is unified under one ticketing system, meaning you can use one card or contactless method across all services.
Services at a Glance:
- Bus Network: Over 400 routes connecting suburbs to major hubs.
- Queensland Rail: Servicing wider South East Queensland, ideal for long commutes.
- CityCat & Ferry Services: Great for riverside suburbs and scenic views.
- Brisbane Metro: Fast, electric, and driverless.
Zones & Fare Structure
As of August 2024, Brisbane no longer uses a traditional zone-based fare system. Instead, TransLink has introduced a flat fare of 50 cents per journey, regardless of how far you travel.
This fare applies across all public transport services, including Brisbane Transport buses, trains, ferries (including CityCats), and the new Brisbane Metro.
The flat fare also applies whether you're paying with a go card, access card, or contactless credit/debit card. The only major exception is the Airtrain to and from Brisbane Airport, which operates outside the flat fare structure and charges a separate premium rate.
Best Ways to Get Around Brisbane
Here’s the breakdown of Brisbane’s top transport options:
Bus
Brisbane's bus network, operated under the TransLink system, offers extensive coverage across the city, connecting suburbs, schools, shopping centres, and the CBD. Major terminals include the Cultural Centre, Roma Street Station, and Queen Street Bus Station.
- Schedules: Buses run frequently during peak times, with schedules varying by route. You can access here TransLink’s live timetables and route information.
- Hot Tip: Take advantage of the Spring Hill Loop (Route 30), a free City Loop bus service that operates on weekdays, connecting the CBD with Spring Hill. The service runs every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 20 minutes during off-peak times. It's an excellent option for short trips within the city centre.
For more details on free loop services and their schedules, visit the site here.
Train
Brisbane's train network, operated by Queensland Rail under the TransLink system, provides efficient and reliable transportation across the city and its suburbs. The network comprises multiple lines connecting key areas, including the CBD, outer suburbs, and regional centres.
Major Stations:
- Roma Street Station: A central hub connecting various lines and long-distance services.
- Central Station: Located in the heart of the CBD, serving as a primary access point for commuters.
- Fortitude Valley Station: Serving the inner-north suburbs and entertainment precincts.
Train Lines Include:
- Beenleigh Line: Connecting Brisbane to Beenleigh via the southern suburbs.
- Caboolture Line: Running north from Brisbane to Caboolture.
- Cleveland Line: Serving the eastern suburbs to Cleveland.
- Doomben Line: Connecting the city to Doomben in the northeast.
- Ferny Grove Line: Running northwest to Ferny Grove.
- Ipswich/Rosewood Line: Connecting Brisbane to Ipswich and Rosewood in the west.
- Shorncliffe Line: Serving the northeastern suburbs to Shorncliffe.
- Springfield Line: Connecting the city to Springfield Central in the southwest.
- Redcliffe Peninsula Line: Running north to Kippa-Ring.
- Gold Coast Line: Providing services to the Gold Coast region.
- Airport Line: Connecting the city to Brisbane Airport (note: different fare applies).
For detailed timetables and service information, visit the TransLink train timetables page here.
Travel Tips:
- Always tap on and off with your chosen payment method to ensure the correct fare is charged.
- Use the TransLink Journey Planner to plan your trips and check real-time service updates: https://translink.com.au/plan-your-journey
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CityCat & Ferry Services
Brisbane's ferry network, operated by RiverCity Ferries, offers scenic and efficient river transport via high-speed CityCats and cross-river KittyCats. These services connect key destinations along the Brisbane River, providing both commuters and tourists with a unique way to navigate the city.
Major Terminals:
- UQ St Lucia: Serving the University of Queensland.
- Northshore Hamilton: Northernmost terminal, connecting to the Northshore precinct.
- South Bank: Access to cultural attractions and parklands.
- Riverside: Located in the CBD, close to business districts.
- QUT Gardens Point: Adjacent to the Queensland University of Technology.
Schedules:
- CityCat Services: Operate daily with frequent services during peak hours. Timetables vary by route and day.
- KittyCat Services: Provide cross-river connections at regular intervals.
For detailed timetables and route information, visit the official TransLink ferry timetables page here.
Travel Tips:
- Bicycles and e-scooters are permitted on CityCats, subject to space availability.
- Dogs are allowed during off-peak hours (8:30 am–3:30 pm and 7:00 pm–6:00 am on weekdays, and all day on weekends) and must be leashed and muzzled or in a carrier.
- All CityCat and KittyCat vessels are wheelchair accessible.
For more information on ferry services, including maps and service updates, visit the Brisbane City Council's ferry page here.
Best Apps for Brisbane Public Transport
Here are some top-notch options to plan your trip:
TransLink App
The official app offers:
- Real-time departure times
- Interactive network map
- Alerts for public holidays and delays
- Go Card balance checking
Google Maps
A solid option for route planning. Combines bus, train, and ferry services with rideshare services and walking directions.
Moovit
- Excellent for complex trips
- Offer travel time estimates, step-by-step navigation, and mobility device compatibility
- Moovit even covers accessibility tools
Tips for Getting Around Without a Car
With over 4 million trips recorded during the first week of Brisbane’s 50-cent fare rollout, it's clear that car-free commuting is catching on fast. As Brisbane’s population surges past 72,000 new residents in a year, public transport offers a smarter way to beat traffic and rising car costs.
If you’re ready to ditch the car, here’s how to move smarter:
- Travel Off-Peak: Beat the rush by riding before 7 am or after 6:30 pm. Services are less crowded, and you’ll get a more relaxed trip.
- Use Park-and-Ride: Drive to a train station or major bus terminal, then switch to public transport. It cuts city parking hassles and saves money.
- Walk, Bike, or E-Scoot: Fill gaps between services with active transport. Brisbane’s CBD and suburbs are packed with bike lanes, and you'll find bike and scooter rentals around hubs like South Bank, Roma Street Parklands, and James Street.
- Plan with the Right Tools: Use the TransLink Journey Planner or real-time apps to sync routes, check delays, and avoid getting stuck.
- Stay Aware and Safe: Stick to well-lit areas, avoid sketchy stops, and check service updates before heading out: https://translink.com.au/service-updates
Going car-free in Brisbane isn't just doable; it’s easier, cheaper, and more flexible than ever.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to pay for public transport in Brisbane?
You can pay using a go card, access card, or contactless credit and debit cards across all Brisbane Transport services. Tap on and off at stations, ferry terminals, or when boarding Brisbane Transport Buses. You can top up go cards online, at convenience stores, or station ticket offices.
Can I get on the Brisbane bus without go card?
Yes, you can board using a credit card or other contactless method, as bus drivers accept tap payments directly. While cash isn't accepted, you can still access all bus route services with these modern payment options.
Is there free public transport in Brisbane?
Yes! Brisbane offers several free options, including the Spring Hill Loop and City Hall–linked shuttle routes. Some events also include free transport. Additionally, you can walk or cycle parts of the city thanks to the Brisbane Riverwalk, bike paths, and proximity to attractions, reducing the need for a vehicle or taxi companies.
Is public transport good in Brisbane?
Absolutely. Brisbane has an extensive network of buses, trains, ferries, and Metro services, making it easy to explore. Whether you’re heading to the CBD, suburbs, or landmarks like City Hall, it’s well-connected. Combined with affordable fares, scenic routes, the transport system delivers unforgettable experiences for commuters and tourists alike.
What types of home loans can brokers help first-time buyers within Brisbane?
Local mortgage brokers help first-time buyers in Brisbane secure the right home loan by simplifying options and handling the process from start to finish. They assist with variable and fixed-rate loans, low deposit and guarantor loans, as well as government-backed schemes like the First Home Guarantee.
Wrapping Up
Getting around Brisbane without a car in 2025 is not just possible; it’s practical, thanks to the city’s reliable and affordable public transport system. With Brisbane public transport offering a flat 50-cent fare across buses, trains, ferries, and Metro, it’s easier than ever to explore the city and live without the cost of owning a car.
And if you’re ready to buy a home here, Zest Mortgage Solutions is here to help. Our Queensland mortgage brokers specialise in home loans for first-time buyers, making the process clear and stress-free.
We offer free consultations, and with offices in Ipswich and Springfield, we’re proud to support homebuyers across Brisbane and the wider Queensland region. Call us on (07) 3461 6499 or visit zestmortgagesolutions.com.au to start your journey home.
