Canberra, the capital city of Australia, offers a variety of public transportation options for its residents and visitors. The city’s public transportation system is primarily composed of buses and light rail, operated by Transport Canberra. There are also taxis and ride-sharing services available. Canberra’s public transportation system is well-developed and efficient, making it possible for expats to live comfortably without a car. However, depending on one’s lifestyle and daily commute, having a car might be more convenient.
Transport Canberra Buses
Transport Canberra operates an extensive network of bus routes that cover most areas of the city. The buses are generally safe and reliable, making them a popular choice for daily commuting. They operate from early morning until late at night, with reduced services on weekends and public holidays. The buses are equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The fare for a single trip is $3.22 for adults and $1.61 for concession card holders during peak hours, and $2.55 for adults and $1.28 for concession card holders during off-peak hours. MyWay cards can be used for payment, which offer cheaper fares compared to cash.
Light Rail
The light rail in Canberra, also operated by Transport Canberra, is a relatively new addition to the city’s public transportation system. The light rail network currently consists of one line that runs from the city centre to the northern suburb of Gungahlin. The light rail operates from early morning until late at night, with services running every 6 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours. The light rail is safe and comfortable, with modern trams that are equipped with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The fare for the light rail is the same as the bus fare.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are also available in Canberra. They offer a convenient and flexible transportation option, especially for those who need to travel to areas not covered by the bus or light rail network. The fares for taxis and ride-sharing services vary depending on the distance travelled and the time of day. They are generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to check the driver’s identification and ratings before getting into the vehicle.
Walking and Cycling
Canberra is a pedestrian-friendly city with a network of footpaths and cycle paths. The city’s layout and the abundance of green spaces make walking and cycling pleasant and enjoyable. Many residents choose to walk or cycle for short trips, especially in the city centre and the inner suburbs. Canberra also has a bike-sharing service called Airbike, which allows users to rent a bike for a short period of time.
In conclusion, Canberra’s public transportation system is comprehensive and efficient, making it possible for expats to live comfortably without a car. However, having a car might be more convenient for those who need to travel frequently or have a long daily commute.
