Perth's Transport Network
Perth's public transport is operated by Transperth and covers trains, buses, and ferries across the metropolitan area. While Perth is still a car-dependent city, the network has improved significantly with the Metronet project adding new rail lines and stations.
Trains
Perth has six train lines radiating from the CBD:
- Joondalup Line — North to Joondalup and Butler
- Mandurah Line — South through Cockburn to Mandurah
- Midland Line — East through Bayswater and Guildford
- Fremantle Line — West through Cottesloe to Fremantle
- Armadale Line — Southeast through Victoria Park and Cannington
- Airport Line — Connects Perth Airport directly to the CBD and eastern suburbs
Trains run from approximately 5am to midnight on weekdays, with extended services on Friday and Saturday nights.
Free CAT Buses
Perth's best-kept public transport secret: the Central Area Transit (CAT) buses are completely free. There are four colour-coded routes covering the CBD, Northbridge, East Perth, and West Perth. They run every 7-10 minutes during the day.
SmartRider Cards
You'll need a SmartRider card to use Transperth services (cash is no longer accepted on most routes). Cards cost $10 and can be topped up at stations, online, or at newsagents. Tap on when boarding and tap off when exiting.
Tips
- Free Transit Zone: All travel within the Perth CBD (Zone 1) is free on trains and buses
- Journey Planner: Use the Transperth app or website to plan your trip — it provides real-time arrival info
- Off-peak savings: Travel outside 7-9am and 4-6:30pm for lower fares
- Elizabeth Quay ferry: A scenic way to cross the river between Elizabeth Quay and South Perth
Comments (10)
Fremantle's longest-serving captain is Matthew Pavlich, who held the role from 2007 to 2016, leading the club to its only Grand Final appearance in 2013.
Fremantle's longest-serving captain is Matthew Pavlich, who held the role from 2007 to 2016, leading the club to its only Grand Final appearance in 2013.
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. — Psalm 30:5
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. — Psalm 30:5
I caught the 950 from Perth Busport every Thursday for a year, just to sit beside a girl who never once said my name.
I caught the 950 from Perth Busport every Thursday for a year, just to sit beside a girl who never once said my name.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. — Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. — Philippians 4:13
Did you know? Many Tame Impala fans have spent train rides in Perth listening to Currents — its synth-driven groove pairs especially well with city travel.
Did you know? Many Tame Impala fans have spent train rides in Perth listening to Currents — its synth-driven groove pairs especially well with city travel.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son. — John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son. — John 3:16
The free CAT bus is a Perth secret weapon! SmartRider tip: tap on AND off to get the best fares.
The free CAT bus is a Perth secret weapon! SmartRider tip: tap on AND off to get the best fares.
Be not weary in well doing. — 2 Thessalonians 3:13
Be not weary in well doing. — 2 Thessalonians 3:13
What do you mean?
What do you mean?
Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. — Ecclesiastes 11:1
Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. — Ecclesiastes 11:1