Public Transport
Brisbane has a great public transport fleet made up of trains, buses and ferries. These methods of transport are reliable and easily accessible with plenty of stations and stops.
We suggest using Translink as your go-to resource for all things public transport. You’ll find all the information you need, plus, you can even plan your journey using their Journey Planner.
You’ll also want to invest in a Translink go card, which will allow you to seamlessly commute via bus, train or ferry Brisbane wide. They can be purchased and loaded/topped up at several locations – you can check here for a location near you.
Make sure you link your go card to your student card for cheaper rates.
Driving
As the most popular choice, it is not always the most feasible one. A car will give you the most freedom and flexibility to go where you want, when you want. But be wary of parking and traffic.
Brisbane’s parking can be a hurdle, especially if you live in the city (yes, we are looking at you Student One residents). Look into parking in your area before you commit financially to a car. Companies such as Parkhound will connect you with empty car spaces that are available to rent.
Peak hour traffic can turn Brisbane into a parking lot Monday to Friday so if you can avoid commuting between 7-9am and 4-7pm you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle.
If you’re after a temporary solution seek out a cheap (read: not fancy) car, or split the car costs with friends.
Cycling
The healthy way to get around, you’ll be doing your part for the environment and your heart. Buy your own bike or use Brisbane’s bike sharing service CityCycle.
With 150 bike stations across Brisbane and 24/7 access, CityCycle is an easy, convenient, and reliable mode of transport.
This service is free for half-hour periods – yes, that means you can ride all day long for free, if you return the bikes within the half-hour time lots. Alternatively, you can purchase a CityCycle Student Membership for only $3 a month, or a Casual Pass for $2 – that will give you full access for 24 hours. You’ll find it best to pre-purchase online here.
P.S. Student One residents don’t forget you also have access to borrow a bike free of charge from us.
Don’t forget to BYO helmet or risk coping a hefty fine.
Scooters
Similar to CityCycle but with scooters. The whole process happens right from your smartphone making it a quick and simple transport option. There are two options when it comes to scootering around Brisbane – Lime and Neuron. You have probably seen the electric green scooters zooming around Brisbane, but you’ll now find electric orange scooters joining the squad.
To get started:
- Download the App (Lime or Neuron). Sign up. Add payment method.
- Locate a scooter via the app.
- Scan the QR code to unlock.
- It’ll set you back $1 to unlock the scooter and then you pay 30c per minute to scoot around.
- For more information and some popular routes check out our article on scootering in Brisbane
For more information and some popular routes check out our article on scooters here.
Rideshare
I’m sure you’ve heard of Uber – the rideshare app that acts as a modern taxi. The Uber app connects you with a reliable ride in minutes, getting you to your desired destination in no time. Payment is completely cashless and you can even split the fare with the friends you’re travelling with, making for no fuss when you arrive. While there are lots of levels of comfort with Uber we recommend sticking to the budget service UberX or when you have a big group UberXL. If you’re travelling with luggage you may also have to opt for a bigger car such as UberComfort.
The minimum spend for an Uber trip is $7.50 so keep that in mind before you hop in an uber for a short distance.
Lyft, Ola and Didi are the new kids on the block and work similarly to Uber at lower rates… currently.
Walking
Brisbane is a very walkable city. Walking is good for you, and will let you take in all the Brisbane vibes. While walking might not work for your every destination need, you’ll find you can easily walk part of the way to your nearest transport option.
