Perth

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Trains

Perth's suburban rail system links the city to surrounding suburbs, with multiple lines connecting key urban and regional areas.

Sections

Overview of the Perth Train System

The Perth train system is operated by Transperth and consists of five main train lines that connect the city center to the suburbs and surrounding areas. The system is clean, safe, and reliable, making it a popular mode of transport for both locals and visitors.

Train Lines

  1. Joondalup Line (Green Line)

    • Runs north from Perth CBD to Butler.
    • Key stations: Perth Underground, Leederville, Joondalup, Clarkson, Butler.
    • Nearby landmarks: Hillarys Boat Harbour (via bus from Joondalup), Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City.

  2. Mandurah Line (Blue Line)

    • Runs south from Perth CBD to Mandurah.
    • Key stations: Perth Underground, Canning Bridge, Rockingham, Mandurah.
    • Nearby landmarks: Mandurah Foreshore, Penguin Island (via bus from Rockingham).

  3. Armadale/Thornlie Line (Red Line)

    • Runs southeast from Perth CBD to Armadale, with a branch to Thornlie.
    • Key stations: Perth, Cannington, Armadale, Thornlie.
    • Nearby landmarks: Westfield Carousel Shopping Centre (Cannington), Araluen Botanic Park (via bus from Armadale).

  4. Midland Line (Orange Line)

    • Runs east from Perth CBD to Midland.
    • Key stations: Perth, Maylands, Guildford, Midland.
    • Nearby landmarks: Swan Valley wine region (via bus from Midland), Guildford historic town.

  5. Fremantle Line (Fremantle Line)

    • Runs west from Perth CBD to Fremantle.
    • Key stations: Perth, Subiaco, Claremont, Fremantle.
    • Nearby landmarks: Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Prison (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Cottesloe Beach (via bus from Claremont).

Schedules

  • Operating Hours: Trains generally run from around 5:00 AM to midnight, with extended services on Friday and Saturday nights.
  • Frequency:
    • Peak hours: Every 5-10 minutes.
    • Off-peak hours: Every 15-30 minutes.
    • Weekends and public holidays: Every 15-30 minutes.
  • Night Services: On Friday and Saturday nights, late-night trains operate on all lines, departing from Perth Station at regular intervals.

You can check real-time schedules and plan your journey using the Transperth app or the Transperth website.

Ticketing Options

Transperth uses a zone-based fare system, and ticket prices depend on the number of zones you travel through. There are two main ticketing options:

  1. SmartRider Card (Recommended for frequent travelers)

    • A reusable, contactless card that offers discounted fares.
    • Requires a minimum balance to travel (e.g., AUD 10 for adults).
    • Fares are automatically calculated and deducted based on your journey.
    • Discounts: 10-20% off standard cash fares.
    • Can be topped up online, at train stations, or at retail outlets.

  2. Cash Tickets (Single or Day Pass)

    • Single tickets: Valid for 2 hours and allow unlimited travel within the zones purchased.
    • Day passes: Allow unlimited travel across all zones for the entire day.
    • Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines located at all train stations.

Sample Fares (as of 2023):

  • 2-zone trip: AUD 4.90 (cash) or AUD 4.40 (SmartRider).
  • Day pass (all zones): AUD 10.30 (cash) or AUD 9.30 (SmartRider).

Concessions: Discounts are available for children, students, seniors, and pensioners. Proof of eligibility is required.

How to Purchase Tickets

  • SmartRider Card:
    • Purchase at Transperth InfoCentres (e.g., Perth Station, Elizabeth Quay).
    • Available at some retail outlets like newsagents.
  • Cash Tickets:
    • Buy from ticket machines at train stations (accepts cash and cards).
    • Machines are user-friendly and offer instructions in multiple languages.

Accessibility

Perthโ€™s train system is highly accessible for people with disabilities:

  • All stations have ramps or lifts for wheelchair access.
  • Trains have dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and prams.
  • Audio announcements and visual displays provide real-time information.
  • Assistance animals are allowed on trains.

If you require additional assistance, you can contact Transperthโ€™s customer service in advance.

Key Stations and Nearby Landmarks

  1. Perth Station:

    • Central hub for all train lines.
    • Nearby landmarks: Elizabeth Quay, Perth Cultural Centre (Art Gallery of WA, WA Museum Boola Bardip).

  2. Elizabeth Quay Station:

    • Connects to the Mandurah Line.
    • Nearby landmarks: Elizabeth Quay waterfront, Bell Tower, ferry to Rottnest Island.

  3. Fremantle Station:

    • Terminus of the Fremantle Line.
    • Nearby landmarks: Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Prison, Esplanade Park.

  4. Midland Station:

    • Terminus of the Midland Line.
    • Nearby landmarks: Swan Valley wine region, Midland Gate Shopping Centre.

  5. Joondalup Station:

    • Major stop on the Joondalup Line.
    • Nearby landmarks: Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City, Neil Hawkins Park.

Local Considerations

  1. Peak Hours: Trains can get crowded during peak commuting hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.
  2. Safety: Perthโ€™s train system is generally safe, but itโ€™s always a good idea to stay alert and keep your belongings secure.
  3. Free Transit Zone (FTZ): Within the Perth CBD, train travel is free between certain stations (e.g., Perth, Elizabeth Quay, and City West). Look for signs indicating the FTZ.
  4. Public Holidays: Train services may operate on a reduced schedule during public holidays. Check the Transperth website for updates.
  5. Bikes on Trains: Bicycles are allowed on trains outside of peak hours. Dedicated bike storage areas are available on most trains.

Tips for Visitors and New Immigrants

  • Download the Transperth app for real-time updates, journey planning, and fare information.
  • If youโ€™re staying long-term, consider getting a SmartRider card for convenience and savings.
  • Familiarize yourself with the zone system to avoid overpaying for tickets.
  • Use the train system to explore Perthโ€™s suburbs and nearby attractions, such as Fremantle, the Swan Valley, and Mandurah.

By understanding the train system in Perth, youโ€™ll find it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. Whether youโ€™re commuting, sightseeing, or settling in, the train network is a reliable and cost-effective way to get around.