Fares for passengers on NSW’s public transport network are poised to increase again, but officials insist commuters’ wallets will not take too much of a hit.
Prices on the Opal-enabled system, which spans Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle and most of the Blue Mountains, will increase by an average of 3.6 per cent.
It is the second price increase in nine months, after fares went up 3.7 per cent in October.
The latest fare rise is in line with March inflation figures and prices set by the state's Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
It means adults will pay about $0.49 more for a train or metro trip, $0.27 extra on buses or light rail and $0.43 for a ferry, although all fares vary due to distance and time-of-day charges.
Young travellers and concession card holders will see about half those increases.
After discounts and price caps are applied, Transport for NSW secretary Josh Murray said commuters might see a less-than $1-per-week increase.
“Each year, fares are reviewed to ensure the network can continue to operate sustainably, keeping up with increased operating costs including fuel, electricity, maintenance and staffing,” he said.
“Public and active transport remain some of the most affordable ways to get around.
"These increases will ensure Transport for NSW is able to continue to invest in delivering reliable services for passengers.”
No adult commuter will pay more than $50 a week courtesy of an unchanged price cap, while children and concession card holders’ fees are capped at $25.
Seniors and pensioners pay no more than $2.50 a day.
