Transport
Cycling, ride-share and long-distance travel
Helmets are compulsory. E-bikes and e-scooter rules differ by state. Uber, DiDi and Ola in cities. Domestic flights, tourist trains, coaches, and what to think about before driving across the Nullarbor.
Published 17 May 2026 · Last reviewed 17 May 2026
Cycling
Most capital cities have decent (and growing) cycling infrastructure. A few rules:
- Helmets are compulsory everywhere.
- E-bikes legal up to 250W with pedal assist limited to 25 km/h.
- E-scooters legal in some states (QLD, ACT, VIC trials), illegal on roads in others (NSW until trials roll out). Check current rules.
- Bike registration not required for ordinary bikes.
- Bikes can use most roads but not freeways/motorways without dedicated paths.
Ride-share and taxis
- Uber, DiDi, Ola operate in major cities.
- Taxis still exist — book through 13CABS, Silver Service, or hail at ranks.
- Most CBD areas are well-served.
Long-distance travel
Domestic flights
- Main carriers: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex (regional). Bonza ceased operations in 2024.
- Sydney–Melbourne is one of the busiest air routes in the world. Cheap-fare windows exist if you book midweek.
- Domestic airport security is generally faster than international.
Trains
- Long-distance rail is limited. NSW TrainLink, V/Line, Queensland Rail Travel run regional services.
- The Indian Pacific (Sydney–Adelaide–Perth), The Ghan (Adelaide–Alice Springs–Darwin), and the Spirit of Queensland (Brisbane–Cairns) are tourist trains, not commuter options.
Coaches
- Greyhound, Premier Motor Service, V/Line, and state-government coaches connect regional towns to capitals.
Driving across Australia
- Sydney to Perth is about 4,000 km. Plan 5+ days of driving with overnight stops.
- The Nullarbor (across the Great Australian Bight) requires fuel planning — stations 150–300 km apart.
- Outback driving: tell someone your route, carry water, watch for wildlife at dawn and dusk (kangaroos and wombats can total a car).