New payment options now live across public transport network

Public transport passengers can now enjoy the convenience of tagging on and off with their credit or debit cards, as well as digital wallets on their phones, smart watches, and other wearable devices.

The milestone marks one of the biggest changes to Western Australia's public transport system since SmartRider was introduced 18 years ago, giving passengers as well as visitors more choice and flexibility in how they choose to pay.

It follows successful trials over the past few months and marks a major step forward in the SmartRider Upgrade Project, which includes a range of improvements across the network.

SmartRider will continue to play a key role across our system, providing access to concession fares, SmartParker, and bike shelters.

Those travelling on public transport in Bunbury, Busselton, Kalgoorlie, Esperance, and Albany will also be able to use the new payment options from today.  

The rollout will extend to Geraldton, Karratha, and Port Hedland before the end of this year.

There will be small differences for passengers using these options, including that fares will not be displayed on a validator or calculated throughout the day.

Instead, a single daily charge will be calculated and applied at the end of the day.  

Further, station parking must be paid for using pay‑by‑plate machines, as SmartParker machines will not accept contactless payments.

Passengers must use the same card or device to tag on and off for each trip.

While concession fares remain available only by using SmartRider or cash, contactless payment users will still enjoy free travel on Sundays by tagging on and off.

More information is available at transperth.wa.gov.au.