NSW Finally Gets Smart Travel Card

  • Start at Neutral Bay ferry
  • Expand to Sydney train and other ferry network
  • Buses will get it on 2013

NSW's smart travel card has finally been given a launch date, with the Neutral Bay ferry being the first trial stop. It is expected to be fully operational by 2015.

  • Start at Neutral Bay ferry
  • Expand to Sydney train and other ferry network
  • Buses will get it on 2013

NSW's smart travel card has finally been given a launch date, with the Neutral Bay ferry being the first trial stop. It is expected to be fully operational by 2015.

This will expand to the Sydney train network mid to late next year, as well as the rest of the ferry network.

Smart travel cards were originally scheduled to be available for travelers during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. But so far, it has taken about 12 years for it to reach implementation. The card is finally getting a limited trial next month, with adults on the Neutral Bay ferry loop able to use the card.

The Opal card allows users to simply tap and go on public transport, without having to spend 15 minutes in a queue on Monday morning. It will work like an e-tag, allowing you to add funds automatically or manually. You will be required to tap the card at the start and end of every trip. This will ensure that you are only charged for the distance you travel.

Individual tickets will be capped at $15 a trip from Monday to Saturday and $2.50 on Sundays, with users able to travel for free after paying for eight journeys in a single week.

For buses, Opal support won’t come until 2013, while the Sydney light rail service will come online in 2015.