Getting around in Perth: a guide to the public transport system
- Jacqueline Reid
- Apr 23, 2025
- 4 min read
So, you've made the exciting move to Perth - a city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant café culture, and lush parks. But how do you get to all the incredible places you've been dreaming about? Knowing how to get around is key to exploring all that Perth has to offer, and making the most of your international student experience.
In this blog, we'll walk you through the different ways to get around Perth, so you can choose the options that suit your lifestyle and make the most of everything this beautiful city has to offer!
Transperth
Transperth is Perth's public transport network, which includes buses, trains, and ferries. To use the network, you can either purchase a ticket on the day of your travels or purchase a Transperth SmartRider card. A SmartRider is the cheapest and easiest way to travel with Transperth.
SmartRider Card
It is highly recommended you get a SmartRider card. As an international student, you are eligible for a Tertiary SmartRider, on which you will be charged the concession fare - more than 50% off the standard fare! You can obtain this through your institution.
There are a few ways you can load money onto your SmartRider:
Autoload (direct debit) is the easiest and cheapest way to add value to your SmartRider (you get an extra discount on your fare when you use this method!).
Add-Value Machines which are located at selected train stations throughout Perth.
On board buses and ferries, however keep in mind this method is cash only, and you must have the exact amount you'd like to top up as no change will be given.
When using a SmartRider, you need to tag on and off. At the start and end of your journey, tap your SmartRider on the card reader on the bus, on the ferry, or at the train station.
You are only eligible for the discounted student rates if you have your SmartRider with you as proof of being a student. Your student ID from your institution is not adequate proof that you are a student. If you don't have your SmartRider with you, you will need to purchase a full-fare ticket.
Every Sunday, travel is free for all SmartRider holders. If there is a place you've been wanting to check out but don't want to pay the fare, Sunday is the day!
Bus
Buses are available right across Perth. You can find the bus you need using Transperth's Journey Planner.
If you're in the city, you can take advantage of the free CAT (Central Area Transit) buses that operate daily. They also operate for free in Fremantle and Joondalup.
A free transit zone (FTZ) also operates within the City of Perth boundaries. You can travel on any bus within the City of Perth for free. FTZ signposts are displayed on the route limits.
Train
Perth has an extensive rail network with multiple lines heading North, South, East, and West from the city to the outer suburbs.
Within the city centre, there is a free transit zone (FTZ) for trains travelling in the area between City West, Elizabeth Quay, and Claisebrook stations. You simply need to tag on and off with your SmartRider card to take advantage of the free fares.
For station information and maps, click here.
Ferry
A ferry operates across the Swan River, between Elizabeth Quay in Perth and the Mends Street Jetty in South Perth, departing every 15-30 minutes.
Other ways to get around Perth
Bike
Bike riding is an awesome, cost-effective way to get around Perth as a student. You can purchase a bike at a cycling shop, or check out Facebook Marketplace and Op Shops near you to save some $$$.
Perth has a network of dedicated bike paths available to cyclists, so you can safely get around on your bike. All cyclists must wear a bike helmet that is securely fitted and fastened at all times. You can learn more about safe cycling on roads and footpaths, and related offences and penalties here.
Car
You can purchase or hire a car to get around in Perth. For more information on driving in Western Australia, check out our Guide to Driving for International Students.
Uber, taxis and rideshares
There are several major taxi companies that operate across Perth, including Swan Taxis, 13cabs and Black & White Cabs. You can hail a taxi on the street or use one of the dedicated taxi ranks. You can also book one via phone or by using their app.
E-scooters
Electric scooters have fast become a popular choice for commuting and recreational purposes in and around Perth. Available for hire in some suburbs, and now the Perth CBD, they can be a fun and affordable way to get around.
E-scooters can be ridden on:
Footpaths, bicycle paths, and shared paths
Bicycle lanes (on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less)
Local roads (but not main roads, highways, or freeways)
This blog post is the intellectual property of StudyPerth and is being used on this site solely as a representation of my work.
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