Western Australia to Slash Public Transport Fares in 2026: Save Big on Travel Across Perth and Beyond!

The Cook Government has announced significant fare reductions across Western Australia’s public transport network, effective from 1 January 2026. These changes, which will benefit passengers across Transperth, Transregional, and Transwa services, are part of a broader initiative to ease the cost-of-living pressures for Western Australians. With the introduction of the Go Anywhere Fare, the Cook Government is delivering a historic reduction in public transport fares, bringing them back to the levels last seen in the mid-1980s.

A Major Overhaul of Public Transport Fares

Starting from 1 January 2026, the Transperth and Transregional fare zone structure will undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of the Go Anywhere Fare. This new fare structure allows passengers to travel across the entire Transperth network for as little as $2.80 per trip, using a SmartRider with Autoload. For those paying with a credit or debit card, the fare will be $3.50. This new pricing model offers substantial savings, especially for regular commuters.

It has been nearly four decades since fares have been this affordable, reminiscent of the mid-1980s. For frequent travelers in particular, the new fare structure promises substantial savings. Regular commuters to and from the central business district (CBD) stand to save up to $625 per year. This reduction in fares is expected to have a wide-reaching impact, benefiting the many households across Western Australia that rely on public transport for their daily commutes.

Benefits for Regular Commuters and Households

The changes are expected to benefit tens of thousands of households, with approximately 70,000 to 80,000 people making journeys of two zones or more on an average weekday. The affordability of public transport in Perth will significantly enhance the daily commute for many individuals, making it an attractive and cost-effective option for traveling across the city.

Alongside the Go Anywhere Fare, the Cook Government has also introduced the Two-Zone Fare Cap. This measure ensures that passengers will not pay more than a set price for travel across two zones, providing further financial relief for regular commuters. The combination of these fare reductions will not only make public transport more affordable but will also make it more convenient for people to travel across Perth.

Cheaper Travel for Families and Visitors

In addition to the savings for regular commuters, the fare changes will also benefit families and visitors to Perth. The DayRider and FamilyRider fares will be reduced to just $7, making it easier and more affordable for families to travel together and explore Perth’s many attractions. This initiative supports the Cook Government’s goal of making public transport accessible to all, including those who are traveling for leisure or tourism purposes.

The new fare structure encourages more people to make use of Perth’s public transport system, enhancing the overall accessibility and convenience for families, visitors, and tourists. This development is expected to boost tourism in the region, as both locals and visitors will find it easier and more affordable to travel around Perth and experience everything the city has to offer.

Significant Fare Reductions for Regional Travel

A key aspect of the fare changes is the permanent reduction of Transwa fares. Transwa provides public transport services to over 240 destinations across regional Western Australia, and from 1 January 2026, fares will be halved. This means that public transport to and from regional areas will be more affordable than ever before, helping to promote greater connectivity across Western Australia.

For instance, someone traveling between Kalgoorlie and Perth on the Prospector will save $100 on a return journey, while those traveling between Esperance and Perth will save $107 on a return trip. The halving of Transwa fares will not only benefit regular travelers but will also support regional tourism and hospitality businesses, which rely on the flow of visitors to these areas.

The fare reductions for regional travel are expected to make public transport a more economical and practical choice for those traveling between regional and metropolitan areas. By providing a more affordable and efficient mode of transport, the Cook Government is aiming to reduce the number of cars on regional roads and encourage more sustainable travel options across the state.

A Broader Strategy for Public Transport Accessibility

The Cook Government’s decision to reduce public transport fares is part of a broader strategy to improve the affordability and accessibility of public transport across Western Australia. This initiative builds on previous measures aimed at expanding and improving the state’s public transport infrastructure. These measures include the delivery of 72 kilometers of new rail and 23 new stations through the METRONET project, as well as providing free public transport for school students.

Additionally, the Cook Government has implemented Fare Free Sundays, offering passengers free travel on public transport across the state every Sunday. This initiative is designed to encourage more people to use public transport for leisure travel, further reducing the need for cars and promoting more sustainable forms of transport. Furthermore, new payment options have been introduced, making it easier for passengers to access and pay for their travel across the network.

The Cook Government’s Commitment to Cost-of-Living Relief

The fare reductions are a key component of the Cook Government’s broader commitment to providing targeted cost-of-living relief for Western Australians. With the rising cost of living, particularly in metropolitan areas, these fare reductions offer tangible financial benefits to thousands of individuals and families across the state. By making public transport more affordable, the Cook Government is helping to reduce the financial burden on Western Australians, especially those who rely on public transport for their daily commute.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti has highlighted the significance of the new fare structure in providing financial relief to Western Australians. With the Go Anywhere Fare, she stated that passengers will have access to affordable travel options across Perth’s public transport network, making it easier for people to get around and access essential services. The halving of Transwa fares is also expected to have a significant impact on regional communities, supporting both locals and visitors in accessing affordable transport.

Conclusion: A New Era of Affordable Public Transport

Starting in 2026, Western Australians will enjoy some of the cheapest public transport fares in decades, making it easier for people to travel across the state. With the introduction of the Go Anywhere Fare, halved Transwa fares, and reduced DayRider and FamilyRider fares, the Cook Government is delivering significant savings to passengers. These changes, which will save regular commuters hundreds of dollars per year, are part of the government’s broader strategy to make public transport more affordable and accessible for all.

By slashing fares across Transperth, Transregional, and Transwa services, the Cook Government is not only providing immediate cost-of-living relief but also investing in the long-term sustainability of public transport in Western Australia. These fare reductions will benefit commuters, families, and tourists alike, ensuring that public transport remains an affordable and efficient choice for travel across the state.

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