The cost of commuting in New South Wales is set to rise, with Opal fares increasing by 2.5% from July 14. This adjustment is a result of the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) change as announced by Transport for NSW. Despite the fare hike, weekly travel costs will still be capped at $50 for adults and $25 for child/youth Opal card users.
For seniors and pensioners holding a Gold Opal card, daily fares will remain unchanged, capped at $2.50. On weekdays (Monday to Thursday), the daily fare cap for adults will increase from $18.70 to $19.30. Over the weekends (Friday to Sunday), this cap will rise from $9.35 to $9.65.
Similarly, for child/youth and concession cardholders, caps will see an increase from $9.35 to $9.65 on weekdays and from $4.65 to $4.80 during weekends.
Moreover, accessing the Sydney Airport terminal will also see a price adjustment, with adult charges now set at $17.92 and child Opal card holders facing a fee of $16.03.
Overall, while the fare increase might put additional financial pressure on commuters, the capped rates are designed to offer some relief, particularly for regular users and certain groups such as seniors and minors.