The 48-hour fare-free period that is being offered across train and metro services in New South Wales today (Thursday 31 July) and tomorrow (Friday August 1) has been extended, to allow passengers to get home for free after midnight tomorrow night.
Opal gates and stations will now remain open or turned off from 12.01 today until 6am on Saturday August 2.
Passengers travelling home early on Saturday morning will not need to tap on or off, and if you do accidentally tap on you will be charged a default fare which will automatically be refunded over the next week
The free travel period is an acknowledgement of the disruption that occurred during months of industrial action, before the Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink Enterprise Agreement was agreed earlier in July.
More than 2.2 million people are expected to take advantage of the free fares, which include Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink, Sydney Metro and the Airport Link train.
Regional routes to places like Melbourne and Brisbane are also free, although these trips will need to have been booked in advance.
Free travel will not extend to buses, ferries and light rail which will charge fares as normal.
New South Wales Minister for Transport John Graham has urged people to get out and support local businesses, which had some “lean days” during industrial action.
“Whether that means a coffee at a local café near the train station or a favourite restaurant or bar in the city, Parramatta or other centres, we know businesses will appreciate a boost in trade,” he said.
Tourism & Transport Forum CEO Margy Osmond said that transport and tourism are “deeply intertwined” and when one slows down, the other feels the impact.
“We welcome the decision to extend the fare-free travel period and encourage people to use this opportunity to rediscover their city and support the businesses that make our urban and regional centres vibrant.
“Whether you’re commuting to work, meeting friends after hours, or exploring what your city has to offer, this fare-free initiative is more than just a gesture. It’s a smart investment into our state that supports the visitor economy.”
