Brisbane is set to introduce a smart ticketing system next week for its bus and metro services, enabling commuters to tap on using their credit or debit cards, as well as smartphones. Previously, the Go Card was the sole method for accessing these services. Translink, the Queensland public transport agency, has begun training bus drivers to familiarise them with this new trial system.
According to Translink, “Smart Ticketing” will allow payments for public transport using contactless Visa, Mastercard, and American Express cards, or any smart device linked to these cards. This initiative introduces a flat fare of 50 cents per journey, regardless of the payment method or transport mode.
While preparing for the rollout, a training handout for bus drivers highlighted the need to be vigilant for ‘card clashes,’ which could lead to multiple fare charges. Drivers have been instructed to advise customers to remove any unnecessary cards from their wallets or phone cases to ensure proper taps.
The smart ticketing initiative has faced several delays; the previous Queensland government initially projected a completion date of 2022 for the rollout across Brisbane’s Translink services. The state had originally allocated $371 million for the project, but the budget has since increased by an additional $60 million over the past year.
The smart ticketing system was first trialled in 2020 at select stations of the Gold Coast Light Rail Network, and it recently expanded to encompass all Gold Coast public transport services. In addition to Brisbane, this contactless payment option is available on transport services across the Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay, and Redland, including buses, trains, ferries, and the CityCats service on the Brisbane River.
With these updates, the smart ticketing initiative in Brisbane marks a significant advancement in public transport accessibility and payment methods, seamlessly integrating modern technology for a more user-friendly experience.