Bus Options in Sydney
The bus and train network in Sydney is extensive and using one or both of these is a common means of getting to and from work. Buses are relatively new in condition and drivers are well trained and reliable. Buses often have their own bus lane on major roads which means during peak hours it can be quicker to take the bus than drive. If you are living in the Eastern Suburbs, North Shore, Northern Beaches or Inner West, buses are essential for traveling to work.
In the city the main bus depots are Circular Quay, Wynard, Town Hall (QVB) and Railway Square. The network then spreads in all directions on hundreds of different routes.
In April 2010, Sydney launched a new transport ticketing system called MY ZONE which is a consolidated ticketing system for all buses, trains and ferries on both private and public services. This means that Sydney-siders can buy one pass and be able to travel on buses, trains and ferries. Normally you buy a 10-ride bus pass and this enables you to ride on transport for those 10 rides. The buses have a machine at the front which you insert the pass into and it punches a hole into it.
If you do not have a pass you can pay cash to the bus driver. This means you enter the bus from the front, not the back door. Some buses during peak hour are PRE-PAID only which means you must have a pass, but all other buses can take cash and do give change. The fare for a single ride in zones 1-2 is $2.20 and a 10-ride pass is $8.80. For complete fare information, visit http://www.131500.com.au/tickets/fares/fares.
All information required to take buses, trains or ferries in Sydney can be found at http://www.131500.com.au
This is a government transport website that has a trip planner extending across all transport means, displays all timetables and up to the minute detail on delays. The website is available in many languages and has a mobile phone application for arranging transport when you are out and about.
On many buses at the front of the bus is special seating for wheelchairs, prams and elderly people. Passengers are expected to vacate these seats when required for those passengers who need this area.
Buses stop at various places on the route and you should signal the driver that you want to stop by pushing one of the red buttons on the hand rails.
Drivers are very friendly and well trained and if you have any questions simply ask them when the bus is stopped.
