Navigating transport in Canberra

Getting from A to B is as easy as walking through the park (in some cases, literally).

Public Transport

Cheap, accessible and with no fear of parking tickets, there’s a lot to love about Canberra’s public transport system. If you live close to the city, in Canberra’s Inner North or near Gungahlin, Canberra’s light rail might be the best mode of transportation for you.

Not only is it reliable, but if you are a student, it’s as cheap as $2.50 per trip. For those who currently don’t have access to the light rail (the network is in the process of expanding), Transport Canberra’s bus network connects every suburb to town centres and the city.

The City Bus Interchange is a useful hub that connects all of Canberra.

Make MyWay your best friend

If you plan to use light rail and buses as your primary form of transportation, you should buy a MyWay card before you travel. MyWay cards are a rechargeable plastic travel card and can be found at your local news agency or place of study. Ask them to put money on your MyWay card when you buy it or top them up at your local bus or tram interchange – remember to ask for a student concession and bring your student identification to enjoy the perks of cheaper tickets.

MyWay cards are the only accepted form of payment on buses. There is more flexibility when it comes on light rail as you can buy a single use or all-day ticket at all interchanges. However, waiting in line for a ticket can be time-consuming and, at times, nail-biting if the tram is fast approaching. If you prefer to avoid living on the edge, invest in a MyWay.

Canberra’s light rail network has been a hit since it was introduced in early 2019 and provides a direct link between the city and Gungahlin in the north. Planning is underway for an extension to Woden in the south.

Driving

Driving around Canberra’s carefully planned roads is a great option for busy students (if you have a car, that is). Carpooling can be a great idea if one of your classmates has a car. However, cars are not always required if you live close to campus or use other forms of transport. Keep in mind that parking can be competitive on campus, and paid parking permits are often required. Get in touch with your institution to find out more.

Active travel: Bikes, scooters and your own two legs

Who would have predicted that scooters would make a comeback? E-scooters are a quick and enjoyable way to get around the city or campus. In Canberra you can rent scooters by the minute, just download the relevant app to ride and make sure you wear a helmet and obey the app’s instructions.

Another form of revered student transportation is the bicycle – a cheap and effective way to soak up Canberra’s breathtaking landscape while getting some exercise. Canberra is known as Australia’s cycling capital, with over 400 kilometres of dedicated cycleways and bike lanes. Too far to ride? Canberra’s buses and light rail are equipped with bike racks so you can split your trip.

Walking or running are also ever popular choices to cover shorter distances – Canberra has an abundance of scenic paths that will transform your daily commute into a visually charming one.