Canberra

1. Overview of the Ticketing System

Canberra uses a smartcard system called the MyWay card for public transportation. This card is the primary method of payment for buses and the light rail. Visitors and occasional users can also purchase single-ride paper tickets, but these are more expensive than using a MyWay card.

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2. Ticket Types and Costs

a. MyWay Card

The MyWay card is a reusable smartcard that offers discounted fares compared to paper tickets. Fares are calculated based on the distance traveled and the time of day (peak or off-peak).

• Standard Fares (as of 2023):
  • Peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM on weekdays):
    • Adult: AUD 3.22 per trip
    • Concession: AUD 1.61 per trip
  • Off-peak hours (all other times, including weekends and public holidays):
    • Adult: AUD 2.55 per trip
    • Concession: AUD 1.27 per trip
• Daily Cap: The maximum you’ll pay in a single day is AUD 9.60 (adult) or AUD 4.80 (concession).
• Free Transfers: Unlimited transfers are allowed within 90 minutes of your first tap-on.

b. Single-Ride Paper Tickets

Paper tickets are available for one-way trips but are more expensive than using a MyWay card.

• Adult: AUD 5.00
• Concession: AUD 2.50

c. Free Travel for Certain Groups

• Children under 5 years old travel for free.
• Seniors with an ACT Seniors Card can travel for free during off-peak hours.
• Students and other concession holders may qualify for reduced fares.

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3. Payment Methods

a. MyWay Card

• Topping Up: You can load money onto your MyWay card online, via phone, or at physical locations (see below). The minimum top-up amount is AUD 5.00.
• Auto Top-Up: You can set up automatic top-ups linked to your bank account or credit card to ensure you never run out of balance.

b. Paper Tickets

• Paper tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver (cash only) or at ticket vending machines located at light rail stops.

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4. Where to Buy Tickets or MyWay Cards

a. MyWay Cards

• Online: You can order a MyWay card through the Transport Canberra website.
• Retail Outlets: MyWay cards are available at selected newsagents, convenience stores, and MyWay Recharge Agents across Canberra.
• Transport Canberra Service Centres: You can purchase and top up cards at these centers.
• Light Rail Stops: Ticket vending machines at light rail stops sell MyWay cards and allow you to top them up.

b. Paper Tickets

• Available from bus drivers (cash only) or ticket vending machines at light rail stops.

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5. How to Use the MyWay Card

1. Tapping On and Off:

   • When boarding a bus or light rail, tap your MyWay card on the card reader near the entrance.
   • When exiting, tap off at the card reader near the exit. This ensures you are charged the correct fare based on the distance traveled.
   • If you forget to tap off, you may be charged the maximum fare for that trip.

2. Checking Your Balance:

   • You can check your balance at MyWay Recharge Agents, online, or by calling Transport Canberra.

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6. Tips and Considerations

• Plan Your Journey: Use the Transport Canberra website or the NXTBUS real-time app to plan your trips and check bus or light rail schedules.
• Off-Peak Travel: If possible, travel during off-peak hours to save money on fares.
• Carry a MyWay Card: Even if you’re a visitor, getting a MyWay card is more cost-effective than buying single-ride tickets.
• Cash for Paper Tickets: If you plan to buy a paper ticket from a bus driver, ensure you have exact change, as drivers may not provide change for large denominations.
• Accessibility: Canberra’s buses and light rail are wheelchair accessible, and priority seating is available for those who need it.
• Free City Loop: The free City Loop bus (Route 101) operates in the city center and is a great way to explore central Canberra without spending money.

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7. Additional Resources

• Transport Canberra Website: www.transport.act.gov.au
• NXTBUS App: Provides real-time bus and light rail tracking.
• Customer Service: Call Transport Canberra at 13 17 10 for assistance.

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By following this guide, you’ll find it easy to navigate Canberra’s public transportation system, whether you’re a visitor or a new resident. Enjoy your time in this beautiful and well-planned city!