Gold Coast

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Ticketing

Public transport ticketing in Gold Coast is managed using go cards and other digital payment methods.

Sections

1. Ticketing Options

The Gold Coast uses an integrated ticketing system, meaning one ticket or card can be used across buses, trams, and trains. The primary ticketing options are:

a. go card

  • What is it? A reusable, contactless smart card that offers discounted fares compared to paper tickets.
  • Who is it for? Both locals and tourists can use it.
  • Benefits:
    • Cheaper fares compared to single paper tickets.
    • Daily and weekly fare caps (limits on how much you pay in a day or week).
    • Easy to top up and use across all TransLink services.

b. Single Paper Tickets

  • What is it? A one-time-use ticket for a single trip.
  • Who is it for? Ideal for occasional users or those who donโ€™t want to purchase a go card.
  • Drawbacks:
    • More expensive than using a go card.
    • No daily or weekly fare caps.

c. go explore Card

  • What is it? A prepaid card designed specifically for tourists.
  • Cost: AUD 10 per day (unlimited travel on buses and trams within the Gold Coast).
  • Who is it for? Tourists who want unlimited travel without worrying about topping up.
  • Benefits:
    • Unlimited travel on Gold Coast buses and trams.
    • Simple and cost-effective for short-term visitors.

d. Concession Fares

  • Available for eligible groups such as children, students, seniors, and pensioners. Proof of eligibility (e.g., student ID or concession card) is required.

2. Costs

The cost of travel depends on the distance traveled (zones) and the type of ticket used. Below is a general breakdown:

go card Fares (as of 2023):

  • Adult: Starting from AUD 2.65 for a short trip (1 zone) during off-peak hours.
  • Concession: Starting from AUD 1.32 for a short trip (1 zone) during off-peak hours.
  • Peak vs. Off-Peak: Off-peak fares are 20% cheaper and apply outside weekday peak hours (7:00 AMโ€“9:00 AM and 3:30 PMโ€“7:00 PM).

Single Paper Tickets:

  • Typically 30-40% more expensive than go card fares. For example, a 1-zone trip may cost around AUD 4.00 for an adult.

go explore Card:

  • AUD 10 per day for unlimited travel on buses and trams within the Gold Coast.

Daily and Weekly Caps (go card):

  • Daily Cap: AUD 10.60 for adults, AUD 5.30 for concessions.
  • Weekly Cap: AUD 31.80 for adults, AUD 15.90 for concessions.

3. How to Purchase Tickets

There are several ways to purchase tickets or top up your go card:

a. go card

  • Where to Buy:
    • Online via the TransLink website or app.
    • At selected retailers, including 7-Eleven stores, newsagents, and convenience stores.
    • At train stations and tram stops with ticket machines.
  • How to Top Up:
    • Online (via the TransLink website or app).
    • At ticket machines at tram and train stations.
    • At participating retailers.

b. Single Paper Tickets

  • Where to Buy:
    • From ticket machines at tram and train stations.
    • Directly from bus drivers (cash only, exact change preferred).

c. go explore Card

  • Where to Buy:
    • At Gold Coast Visitor Information Centres.
    • Selected retailers and convenience stores.
    • Online via the TransLink website.

4. Using Public Transport

Hereโ€™s how to use the Gold Coastโ€™s public transport system with your ticket or card:

a. Buses

  • Boarding: Enter through the front door and tap your go card on the card reader or show your paper ticket to the driver.
  • Exiting: Tap off your go card on the reader near the exit door.

b. Trams (G:link Light Rail)

  • Boarding: Tap your go card on the card reader at the tram station before boarding.
  • Exiting: Tap off your go card on the reader at your destination station.

c. Trains

  • Boarding: Tap your go card on the card reader at the station before entering the platform.
  • Exiting: Tap off your go card on the reader at your destination station.

Important Notes:

  • Always tap on and tap off with your go card to ensure youโ€™re charged the correct fare.
  • Failure to tap off may result in being charged the maximum fare for your trip.

5. Considerations for Tourists and Locals

For Tourists:

  • The go explore Card is the best option for short-term visitors who plan to use buses and trams frequently. Itโ€™s simple, cost-effective, and eliminates the need to calculate fares or zones.
  • If you plan to travel outside the Gold Coast (e.g., to Brisbane), consider using a go card instead, as the go explore Card is limited to the Gold Coast area.

For Locals:

  • The go card is the most economical and convenient option for regular travel. Take advantage of daily and weekly fare caps to save money.
  • Register your go card online to protect your balance in case itโ€™s lost or stolen.

General Tips:

  • Public transport operates on a zone-based system, so understanding the zones youโ€™ll travel through can help you estimate costs.
  • Off-peak travel is cheaper, so plan your trips accordingly if you want to save money.
  • Keep your go card topped up to avoid delays or issues when boarding.

6. Additional Resources

  • TransLink Website: www.translink.com.au โ€“ For fare calculators, journey planners, and service updates.
  • TransLink App: Download the app for real-time updates, trip planning, and managing your go card.
  • Customer Service: Call TransLink at 13 12 30 for assistance with ticketing or travel queries.

By understanding these ticketing options and procedures, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the Gold Coastโ€™s public transport system with ease. Whether youโ€™re a tourist or a local, the system is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Safe travels!