Getting Around in Brisbane

Getting around in Brisbane is relatively straightforward. The city centre is compact, which makes walking and cycling easy, while areas further afield are served by extensive public transport networks.

Trains, buses and the popular CityCat ferry are the main modes of transport for commuters travelling to the city each day.

Brisbane’s rapid population growth has led to the expansion of infrastructure and road networks, but the city still suffers from severe road congestion, particularly at peak hours. Another deterrent for drivers is the expensive (and shortage of) parking in the city centre. Still, a car is useful for traversing the city, particularly if you have kids or intend to explore the areas surrounding Brisbane.

Public transport in Brisbane

Translink Go Card

There are three main modes of public transport in Brisbane, namely trains, buses and ferries. These are all linked through an integrated ticketing system called Translink. Regular commuters often invest in the contactless and rechargeable Translink Go Card. Buying a Go Card not only eliminates the hassle of purchasing tickets for each trip but also saves money in the long run.

Buses

The bus network in Brisbane is large and comprehensive. All buses have a digital display on the front with their route number and final destination. There are many bus routes, but popular stops in the inner city tend to be serviced more regularly than those in the suburbs. There are a handful of free bus services in and around the city centre.

Trains

Trains are a quick and convenient way to travel and cover most of the suburbs and of course the inner city. Intercity rail services can be used to commute to other major destinations, such as the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. While trains are a fast way to get around, there are parts of Brisbane that aren’t covered by the rail network.

Ferries

The iconic ferries that dot the river in Brisbane are called CityFerries and CityCats. There is also a free ferry service, known as the CityHopper, connecting the city with South Bank. While these do not cover as much ground as the city’s bus and rail networks, they do provide a fast and unique way to travel around Brisbane.

Useful links

• Translink

Taxis in Brisbane

Taxis are readily available throughout the city, but they are pricey, so we don’t recommend using these regularly. Taxi fares for cabs hailed on the street and at taxi ranks are regulated by the government, while prebooked taxi fares aren’t subject to these restrictions. That said, it is still best to book ahead of time to ensure availability.

Major taxi companies operating in Brisbane include Black and White Cabs and 13cabs. Ride-hailing applications such as Uber are also available.

Useful links

• Black and White Cabs
• 13cabs
• Uber

Driving in Brisbane

Driving in Brisbane can be tricky. Many new arrivals are often confused and frustrated by the one-way roads and the lack of parking in the city centre. That said, the city generally has well-maintained roads and clear signage. Driving around the suburbs is often easier than in the city except during peak hours.

You can drive on a foreign licence in Brisbane for up to three months before you’ll need to obtain an Australian driving licence. Certain nationalities are exempt from doing practical and theory testing for licensing purposes, meaning they can simply exchange their home licence for an Australian one. Other countries are part of an agreement allowing their nationals to be classified as an ‘experienced driver’. In this case, individuals over the age of 25 can exchange their licence, while those below this age will need to do testing before the exchange can be made.

Note that if your licence from your home country isn’t in English, you’ll have to get it legally translated before arriving in Australia.

Useful links

• Austroads – Applying for a licence

Walking and cycling in Brisbane

Brisbane has many cycle paths around the city, making travel by bicycle safe and easy. Brisbane City Council has recently implemented a new e-mobility programme. E-bikes and e-scooters are now widely available, and riders need only register on the Neuron or Beam app to use these facilities. Expats should bring a helmet, as riding without one can result in a hefty fine.

Expats will also find that walking from point A to B in Brisbane is simple and enjoyable, especially in the city centre.