Canberra's Light Rail Launches 2026: Your Complete Transport Guide

In short: Canberra is easy to get around by a mix of light rail, buses, car and bike. Public transport runs under Transport Canberra using the MyWay+ ticketing system, and the city's wide roads and extensive cycle paths make driving and riding straightforward too.

Light rail

Canberra's light rail runs between Gungahlin in the north and the city centre, stopping at Northbourne Avenue hubs along the way. Services are frequent, step-free and a simple way to move along the main corridor without parking. Tap on and tap off at the MyWay+ validators at each stop.

Buses

Transport Canberra buses cover the wider city and suburbs, with rapid routes connecting the town centres (City, Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong and Gungahlin) and local routes filling in between. The real time journey planner on the Transport Canberra website or the MyWay+ app shows live options, including walking and cycling legs.

MyWay+ ticketing

MyWay+ is the single ticketing system for buses and light rail. You can tap a Mastercard or Visa (physical or on your phone or watch), a MyWay+ card, or a single use ticket. Tap on when you start and tap off when you finish so the correct fare is charged. Every fare includes a free 90 minute transfer, so you can change between bus and light rail for free within 90 minutes of first tapping on. For help, call Transport Canberra on 13 17 10.

Driving and parking

Canberra is a car friendly city with wide roads and generally light traffic compared with larger capitals. Paid parking applies in the city, the parliamentary precinct and the town centres, while many suburban and lakeside spots are free. Check signage for time limits and pay-and-display or app based payment.

Cycling and walking

The city has one of Australia's most extensive off road cycle path networks, including scenic routes around Lake Burley Griffin. Bikes are welcome on light rail and many buses outside peak times. For short central trips, walking is often the quickest option.

Taxis, rideshare and the airport

Taxis and rideshare operate across Canberra and are widely available at the airport, which sits about a 15 minute drive east of the city centre. Buses also connect the airport with the city.

Fares, routes and ticketing can change. Confirm current details with Transport Canberra before you travel.

Related Canberra guides

• Moving to Canberra: a complete guide
• Best things to do in Canberra
• Kingston Foreshore guide

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.