A quick guide to getting around in Perth
If you're new to the area but you're going to be living in Perth for awhile, it pays to know how to take advantage of the local public transport system.
When you live in long term accommodation, you'll likely be placed right in the heart of the city. Even so, it's a good idea to know your way around Perth's public transport network in case you would like to explore more of the surrounding areas as well.
Transperth is the agency responsible for providing transport in the Perth metro area, and they have a handy JourneyPlanner feature on their website that can help you plan a journey to an unfamiliar part of the city.
There are various buses, trains and ferries available to take you where you need to go, but make sure to check the timetables online so you're not caught out.
"Transperth is the agency responsible for providing transport in the Perth metro area, and they have a handy JourneyPlanner feature on their website that can help you plan a journey to an unfamiliar part of the city.
When you buy a Transperth ticket you can use it on a combination of bus, train or ferry rides and it is valid for up to three hours of travel on any of these services - excluding some exceptions, such as shorter journeys of up to 3.2km only.
The fares work on a system of nine different zones, and the fare you pay is based on how many zones you'll need to travel through to get to your destination.
You can use cash to buy tickets from the driver or at the official vending machines located at railway stations. There is also the electronic SmartRider ticketing system which is usually more effective at ensuring you pay the lowest appropriate fare.
To use SmartRider there is a one off initial purchase fee of $10 for the card, and from there you can top up as you need to. With SmartRider you can simply tag on and off for each phase of your journey, no need to worry about having the correct change.