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Perth Public Transport Guide 2026: Trains, Buses & Ferry
Complete Perth public transport guide 2026: SmartRider card, 6 train lines, bus routes, Swan River ferry, zones and fares for Greater Perth.
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Public Transport in Perth 2026, Overview
Perth's public transport network is managed by Transperth (part of the Public Transport Authority of WA). The network is built around Transperth's 6 rail lines, an extensive bus network and a Fremantle ferry service. All services use the SmartRider card. transperth.wa.gov.au
SmartRider Card
The SmartRider is Transperth's reloadable smartcard. Available at train station vending machines, newsagents and online. Provides a 10% discount on fares. Perth uses a zone-based fare system (9 zones). Daily cap and weekly fare structure apply. Contactless bank card tap is also accepted. transperth.wa.gov.au
Transperth Trains
Perth has 6 train lines: Joondalup Line (Joondalup/Butler to Perth CBD), Fremantle Line (Fremantle to Perth CBD), Armadale/Thornlie Line, Mandurah Line (Mandurah to Perth CBD via Kwinana), Midland Line and Ellenbrook Line (opening 2024, Ellenbrook to CBD via Malaga and Morley). Trains run from approximately 5:30am to midnight Monday to Saturday, reduced Sunday service.
Perth Free Transit Zone
Perth's Central Area Transit (CAT) buses provide free travel in the Perth CBD and immediate surrounds, Blue CAT, Red CAT, Yellow CAT and Green CAT routes cover the CBD grid, Northbridge, the Waterfront and Perth's inner-city precincts. CAT buses run every 5-8 minutes on weekdays.
Ferries and Special Services
Transperth operates a ferry between Barrack Street Jetty (Perth CBD) and South Perth (across the Swan River), a scenic 5-minute crossing. The Rottnest Island ferry service (not Transperth) runs from Barrack Street Jetty and Fremantle.
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