Transport System Overview
The most important rule for newcomers to Australia is that you drive on the left-hand side of the road. You must also wear a seatbelt and have your licence with you when you’re driving (you’ll be fined if you don’t). Driving is the most popular and common form of transport for people living in Perth, and most residents find a vehicle to be essential. A travel survey of residents in the Perth metropolitan area found that 80% of trips were by car. The city does, however, offer a good public transport network which encompasses trains, buses and ferries.
Perth has wide roads and highways. Rush hours can be busy but the traffic usually keeps moving. Most people in Perth drive themselves to work rather than using public transport. If you drive above the speed limits in Perth, there is a good chance you will be caught. There are a great many speed cameras and traps in the city and its suburbs. Random breath tests to catch drunk drivers are also commonplace.
During business hours, public transport in Perth offers highly efficient, inexpensive services. Transperth tickets are sold on the basis of city zones and can be used to travel on both buses and trains. You can buy Transperth tickets in most newsagents. If you will be making a journey regularly, you should buy a MultiRider ticket. These work out 15% cheaper for 10 journeys and 25% cheaper for 40 journeys than the standard fare. Perth's public transport system is good for getting you into the central city and out again but is not so good for travelling between suburbs, for which a car is strongly advised.
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Driving:
Which Street Directory should I Purchase?
There are 2 main options available with regard to street directories for Perth and Western Australia. Street Directories can be purchased from newsagents, bookstores, petrol stations, corner stores, or online.
UBD – UBD is at the forefront of the mapping industry and is Australia's leading brand in street directories. Along with the yearly publication of six capital city street directories, UBD also publishes numerous regional and country cities and towns street directories. A variety of maps, atlases, guides and DVDs complete the UBD family.
For further details see: www.ubd.com.au
Gregory’s – The Gregory's brand has been in Australia for over 60 years, is a name synonymous with top quality street directories, maps, atlases, and guide books. The Gregory's name represents trustworthy and comprehensive products with up-to-date and concise mapping information.
Further details can be obtained at: www.gregorys-online.com/directories
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I am an International Driver, Do I Need A Local WA Licence?
To drive in Western Australia you must hold a current driver's licence from your own country, which covers you to legally drive the type of vehicle, you choose here. You must also carry your licence with you at all times. If your overseas licence is not in English, it is advisable to carry an International Driving Permit or an approved English translation of your licence when you drive. If you have a permanent residence visa and intend on living in WA you must obtain a WA drivers licence within 3 months of getting the visa. After this period your overseas authority to drive will not be recognised.
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Transferring your overseas drivers licence:
To transfer your overseas driver licence you must personally attend a licensing centre (payment by Cash, Cheque, EFTPOS or credit card) or a licensing agent (payment by Cash or Cheque only) between the hours of 8:15am and 3:45pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
When attending a licensing centre or agent to transfer your licence you must take the following documentation with you:
- your current overseas drivers licence
- proof of your identity, one primary document and one secondary document (originals only)
- proof of your WA residential address
- one document that shows your signature
- you must also pay an application fee together with the standard licence fee
Cash, cheque, EFTPOS and credit cards are accepted.
You will be required to have your photo taken which will be displayed on your new Western Australian licence.
Once you have presented your documentation you may be required to complete further assessments. Further details on assessments can be found at: www.dpi.wa.gov.au/licensing/yourlicence/1363.asp#overseas
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What if my licence is not in English?
If your licence is not in English you must carry an official translation of the original driver licence document. Translations of overseas driver's licences can be accepted from Consulates or from NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters). Further details can be obtained at:
www.dpi.wa.gov.au/licensing/yourlicence/1363.asp#What_if_my_licence_is_not_in_English
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I am Moving to WA from Interstate – Do I Need to Change to a WA Licence?
You are required to change your existing licence to a WA licence within 3 months of making WA your new home state. You can transfer your interstate drivers licence by personally attending a licensing centre (Cash, Cheque and EFTPOS only), or licensing agent (Cash and Cheque only) between the hours of 8:15am and 4:30pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). A computerised theory test on WA road rules in not required if you produce your interstate licence.
When attending a licensing centre or agent to transfer your licence you must take the following documentation with you:
- your interstate drivers licence or a combination of driver licence details/letter from the interstate driver licence issuing authority
- proof of your identity, one primary document and one secondary document (originals only). You must also produce your interstate drivers licence that is current or that has expired less than 5 years
- proof of your WA residential address
- one document that shows your signature
- pay an application fee (only required if your interstate licence has expired) together with the standard licence fee
You will be required to have your photo taken which will be displayed on your new Western Australian licence. You must also pass the appropriate eyesight standard tests and other WA requirements.
Go to Proof of Identity (www.dpi.wa.gov.au/licensing/1458.asp) for further information.
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What are the Road Rules & Speed Limits?
Be sure to familiarise yourself with the rules of the road before driving. In Australia we drive on the left hand side of the road. Western Australia observes the same driving laws and regulations as the rest of Australia. Some key rules to note are:
- Vehicles travel on the left hand side of the road
- Wearing of seatbelts is compulsory for all passengers
- When approaching roundabouts you must give way to vehicles already in the roundabout. Always use the left hand indicator prior to exiting
- U-Turns are not permitted at traffic lights unless there is a displayed 'U-turn permitted' sign
- You are required to give way to a public bus and always be alert when approaching a railway crossing, country trains do not always run to schedule
- It is illegal to talk on your mobile phone if you are driving
- Drivers must maintain a blood/alcohol level below 0.05 per cent, in order to drive within the legal limit. Western Australia has severe penalties for anyone caught driving under the influence of alcohol or other drug stimulants
An indication of speed limits in Australia is:
School Zones |
40 kmph |
General city driving |
50 kmph |
Main suburban arterial roads |
60 kmph |
Major city arterials |
80 - 90 kmph |
Highways |
100 kmph |
Freeways |
100 - 110 kmph |
The Western Australia Police Service employs radar and other speed monitoring devices, and fines are enforceable – even for visitors.
International road signs are in use in most parts of the state. If you do not immediately understand the meaning of the sign, you should proceed with caution. A Stop sign means just that - stop completely before the white line and give way to traffic to the right and left prior to proceeding. You need not stop at a Give Way sign but you must give way to traffic both ways.
Long distance driving
The distances across the WA region are far and caution should be taken if you are not used to long distance driving. The long stretches of road, and wide open spaces can lead to unintentional speeding, so you need to be aware. And for drivers not used to the conditions, and not taking adequate rest breaks, the combination of warm sun through the windscreen, long, straight sections of road, the soothing hum of wheels and lack of traffic, can have a hypnotic effect. Frequent stops and coffee breaks are recommended for anyone undertaking long distances, to refresh the driver and provide passengers with an opportunity to stretch their legs and have a look around.
Watch out for Animals!
Nearly 50 percent of vehicle crashes reported to police in outback Western Australia are vehicle versus animal. Even a minor collision with an animal can disable your vehicle and require expensive repairs.
Western Australia has plenty of native wildlife, so new drivers in the region need to be watchful for roaming animals such as kangaroos, cattle and even large eagles that often settle on the road. Wildlife is more active around dusk and dawn, and are often confused by the sound of a vehicle, running towards the sound instead of away from it. The most effective way to keep the local wildlife and yourselves safe is to reduce your speed (particularly at dusk and dawn), and to be aware of the unpredictable nature of native animals.
If a large animal such as a kangaroo or cow suddenly appears on the road in front of you, brake firmly and sound your horn. Do not try to swerve around the animal as you are likely to run onto the gravel verge and lose control or roll over.
If you do hit a large animal and kill it, try to remove the carcass from the road for the safety of other motorists. Injured animals are unpredictable, so take care when handling them. Be wary of the tail and rear legs of kangaroos as they can cause serious injury. Use towels and rugs for smaller animals.
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What Hours do Service Stations Operate?
Many service stations in the metropolitan area are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Smaller service stations are generally open 7am to 6pm Monday to Saturday inclusive, while some are open until 10pm or midnight, 7 days a week. Major roads and highways will generally have late trading stops at reasonably frequent intervals. Most service stations sell unleaded fuel, premium unleaded fuel, liquid petroleum gas (LPG, also known as GoGas) and diesel fuel. Many have car wash facilities and grocery items.
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What is the Law regarding Seat Belts & Child Restraints?
It is the law in Australia that all vehicle occupants must wear a seat belt at all times, including children.
By law, it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that passengers under 16 years old are appropriately restrained. The restraint must be approved, match the child’s size and weight, be fitted correctly to the vehicle and adjusted to fit the child’s body. If you are travelling with small children and do not have appropriate child restraints you can hire child seats and baby capsules. Reputable car hire companies can provide this service as do the Red Cross and Kidsafe WA.
The WA Government is currently working towrds implementation of new legislation, expected to be adopted in early 2010. A summary of the proposed changes are:
- Children up to 6 months must be in rear facing restraint
- Children up to 4 years must be in a restraint with an internal 5 point harness
- Children 4 to 7 years must be in booster seat
- Children under 4 not permitted in front seat & under 7 not permitted in front seat unless all rear seats are occupied by children less than 4yrs
- There will be exemptions for children outside weight / size guidelines for existing restraints
All child restraints used in Australia must comply with current Australian standards - one of the main features of which is the use of a rear strap to an anchor point. Australian child restraint standards are some of the most stringent in the world and most overseas child restraints do not comply with these standards and cannot legally be used in Australia - this includes restraints from countries such as the UK and USA. It is advisable to hire or purchase a child restraint in Australia rather than bringing your own from overseas.
For more information on child restraints, please visit www.kidsafewa.com.au/childcarrestraints.html or www.childcarrestraints.com.au
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Do we need a Child Restraint in a Taxi?
Children under the age of 1 year old do not have to travel in a child restraint in a taxi, although it would be best to do so. Some taxi companies may be able to provide child restraints if they are given sufficient notice. A surcharge is the norm for the hire of the child seat and you will often have to pay for the taxi to collect the seat from a depot or taxi company's headquarters. Your journey will be metered from the carseat collection point, to wherever you are picked up and then onto your final destination. Check all charges with your taxi company in advance and ensure that you book your vehicle well in advance (at least an hour).
It is more cost effective to take your own restraint with you, if possible. All taxis should have the correct anchor point for fitting the restraint, but it is always advisable to call the taxi company in advance to check.
Older children must use a child restraint if one is available. If there isn't one available, the child must wear a properly fastened and adjusted seatbelt.
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Is Parking Readily Available?
There are many carparks found throughout the city area, either outdoor or in a multi-storey undercover building. These carparks will clearly display fees and conditions but you should check for their closing time to ensure that your car is not locked inside. Short term roadside parking is not plentiful, but when you manage to find a spot, make sure that you park legally. Road signs designating parking areas and time limitations will indicate ticket or meter parking. Some parking zones are also Clearways or No Standing areas at certain times of the day, so be sure to check.
The City of Perth's parking inspectors enforce parking regulations. Be sure not to park in a Clearway, No Standing zone, taxi/bus zone or loading zone (for commercial vehicles only), as these will attract up to a $100 fine, as will an expired meter or ticket. If you are driving a rental car and you get a parking fine, or any traffic infringement, be sure to let the hire car company know, as many of them will charge an additional administration fee for recovering the cost of fines incurred on their vehicles.
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What do all the Parking Signs mean?
There are a range of parking signs that you will see in WA and around Australia. Australian Standard parking signs that are easier to read and understand have been introduced progressively throughout Australia.
Local Councils are responsible for parking signs. You should contact your Council regarding any parking issues. Parking ticket inspectors are widespread so it is important to follow all parking signs and restrictions – not doing so could get you a hefty fine.
Although produced by Vic Roads, the following document has very good explanations of how to read the various parking signs: www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/0C047D8F-9EF4-4B96-826C-BFA6C5309918/0/VRPIN00084.pdf
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How do I Catch a Taxi (Cab)?
Perth is well served by meter operated taxi cabs. There are taxi ranks throughout the Perth central business district and Fremantle. Supervised taxi ranks operate in Northbridge on Friday and Saturday nights. Taxis may also be hailed on the street or ordered by telephone. Taxi meters are usually clearly visible, so you can keep check of your fare.
Contact details of Perth's major taxi operators are:
- Swan Taxis – 13 1330 or book online at www.swantaxis.com.au
- Black & White Taxis – 13 1008
- Independent Taxis – 9375 7777
A taxi service is available for passengers with disabilities. This service operates twenty four hours a day and it is recommended that you book twenty four hours in advance to avoid delays. This service can be booked on (08) 9333 3377 or (08) 9422 2240.
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What Car Rental Options are Available?
WA has a great range of rental vehicles at competitive rates with plenty of local and international car rental firms, offering a variety of vehicles and deals.
The major rental companies are:
Some of the smaller local operators include:
Bayswater Hire Car has a 2000 car fleet with cars starting from just $15 per day (conditions apply). A no frills service aimed at excellent value. 381 Guildford Rd, Bayswater.( Phone 9370 3888 Fax 9271 7296 )
M2000 Car Rentals All new cars, from 3 door hatches to commuter vans to suit large groups. All prices include insurance and 100kms free. Guaranteed low prices. Perth City, Belmont Airport and Leederville offices are open 7 days a week. 166 Adelaide Tce, Perth. ( Phone 9325 4110 Fax 9227 1078)
Myaree Car Hire have new cars from $22 per day. Large range of vehicles including Tarago 8-Seater and Motorhomes. Deliver to airport and hotels. Open 7 days a week. Unit 2/12 Hayden Court, Myaree. (Phone 9330 8848 Fax 9330 3941)
Sorrento Quay Car Hire Hire a fantastic sports car and see the WA Coast the fun way! Experience the Mazda MX5, MG F Roadster, BMW 3 Series or Porsche Boxster – the car you always dreamed about can be yours! 55 Southside Drive, Hillarys Boat Harbour. (Phone 9243 1550 Fax 9243 1552)
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Are there Bicycle Lanes?
Bicycle lanes are indicated by a bicycle lane sign and a continuous or broken white line. A driver must not drive in a bicycle lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning or when parking.
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What are the Automobile Clubs?
The RAC (Royal Automobile Club of WA) is the main club in Western Australia which offers roadside assistance, travel information and other benefits. The Royal Automobile Club of WA (RAC) is located on Wellington Street, West Perth. (Ph: 13 17 03) rac.com.au/
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Public Transport:
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What are the Public Transport Options in Perth?
Perth is well connected by Transperth (www.transperth.wa.gov.au), Perth’s public transport system. Perth’s public transport network includes the following services:
- Trains
- Buses
- Free ‘CAT’ buses
- Ferries
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What Services do Trains Provide?
Perth has a modern electric rail network which has been considerably upgraded over recent years and expansion of the network continues today. The Transperth train system is a quick and easy way to get around.
Perth’s central city train station is located on Wellington Street opposite Forrest Place and connects to the Underground station for the Joondalup and Mandurah lines. These platforms can also be accessed from the Murray Street Mall, and the Esplanade station takes you right to the Swan River.
Travel from Perth to Fremantle, Midland or Joondalup, stopping all stations, takes around half an hour; to Armadale takes around 40 minutes; and you can get all the way to Mandurah in less than an hour. Some services are express and do not stop at all stations.
Many of Perth's train stations also accommodate connecting buses to other locations, making Perth's rail system more flexible with interaction between train and bus services. Perth trains are also fully accessible for wheelchairs with wide entrance doors and open spacious carriages to accommodate wheelchairs.
There are four main passenger train lines which will take you from the city to the northern suburbs, the outer reaches of the southern suburbs, or to the eastern suburbs of the Perth metropolitan area. There is also a passenger line which will take you to the coastal city of Fremantle.
The Joondalup Line services the northern suburbs of Perth, with trains running frequently between Perth City centre and the northern suburbs. The Joondalup line has now been expanded beyond Joondalup as the rail map below shows.
The Armadale Line services the southern suburbs of Perth, and trains run frequently between the Perth City centre and the southern suburbs, ending at Armadale on the southern outskirts of the Perth metropolitan area. While Thornlie was not previously on the Armadale line, there is now a short line which takes passengers from the main rail line across to Thornlie.
The Midland Line services the eastern suburbs of Perth, from the Perth city centre through the eastern suburbs of the Perth metropolitan area and ending in historic Midland.
The Fremantle Line services the western and south western coastal areas of Perth, including a few of Perth's popular beaches. The trains run between the Perth city centre and ends at the coastal city of Fremantle.
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What Services do Buses Provide?
Perth public transport offers regular bus services to both the Perth City centre, as well as suburban areas of the Perth metropolitan area. Bus services also extend to the coastal city of Fremantle south of Perth. Buses run regularly during the week, with scaled down services available on weekends. Many buses are wheelchair friendly and are fitted with ramps and other devices to provide wheelchair access.
Bus tickets are valid for 2-3 hours and can also be used on Transperth trains and ferries. The main terminals are at the Wellington Street Bus Station and the City Busport, Mounts Bay Road, Perth. Buses run daily from 6.00am to 11.30pm with reduced services on weekends and public holidays. The cost of a ticket depends on how many zones you travel; bus drivers or the ticket machines at train stations can calculate the fare for you.
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What are the Free ‘CAT’ Buses?
Perth has a fleet of small buses known as CATs which stands for Central Area Transit System. These buses service popular tourist areas in the Perth city centre and Fremantle CBD, and are free to use. These buses are airconditioned and are electronically controlled. You can get on the routes at any of the CAT stops, brightly coloured red, yellow or blue, which also tell you when the next bus is due. For information on when the next CAT bus is due to arrive, press the information button at the bus stop. CAT services have also commenced in the Joondalup CBD.
The Red Cat: travels in an East to West direction, right through the heart of the Perth CBD including Hay and Murray Street, with stops at the Perth bus and train terminals on Wellington St. Services operate Mon-Fri 6.50am to 6.20pm every 5 minutes and Sat-Sun 10.00am to 6.15pm every 25 minutes. There is no service on public holidays.
The Blue Cat: travels in a North to South direction, from the Perth foreshore and Barrack Square to Northbridge. Services operate Mon-Fri 6.50am to 6.20pm every 7 mins; Fri 6.20pm to 1.00am every 15 mins; Sat 8.30am to 1.00am every 15 minutes; Sun 10.00am to 5.00pm every 15 minutes. There is no service available on public holidays.
The Yellow Cat: travels in a East to West direction, including Wellington St, and the Perth Bus and train stations. Services operate Mon-Fri 6.50am to 6.20pm every 10 minutes and Sat-Sun 10.00am to 6.15pm every 30 minutes. There are no services on public holidays.
The Fremantle Cat: operates in the central city area from Monday to Friday 7.30am to 6.30pm every 10 minutes, weekends and public holidays 10.00am to 6.30pm every 10 minutes. There is no service on Good Friday, Christmas or Boxing Day.
The Joondalup Cat: bus service departs from Joondalup Station at 15 minute intervals Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 6.00pm and from 9.00am to 6.00pm on Saturdays. There are no services on Sundays or public holidays.
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What Services do Ferries Provide?
A daily ferry service operates in Perth connecting the Perth Esplanade with the South Perth foreshore on the opposite side of the Swan River. The ferry departs approximately every 20-30 minutes from the Barrack Street Jetty on Riverside Drive in Perth and takes you to the Mends Street jetty on the South Perth Esplanade. The ferry can be taken from either jetty, and the trip one way takes approximately 7 minutes. Tickets are available from vending machines on both jetties. Ferry services begin at approximately 7.30am on weekdays and 8.00am on weekends and continue throughout the day until approximately 7.20pm at night.
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What is the ‘Free Transit Zone’?:
Transperth’s Free Transit Zone (FTZ) covers all major shopping streets in the Perth CBD as well as West Perth, East Perth and Northbridge. You do not need a ticket to use any bus service within this area. Many popular destinations can be accessed via the Circle Route buses including major shopping centres, universities and several major hospitals. This route also connects with the various train lines. If you are unsure whether you are within this area, just ask your bus driver.
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What is the ‘NightRider’ Service?
If you're planning a great Saturday night out in the city, enjoying the many great dining, nightspots and entertainments on offer, you can get home safely using the late night bus service, NightRider.
NightRider buses operate on Saturday night leaving from Milligan Street in Northbridge and run hourly from 1.00am. The last service departs Northbridge at 4.00am.
The service operates along two routes:
- Northbridge to Scarborough via Scarborough Beach Road
- Northbridge to Fremantle via Canning Highway (connecting to the Fremantle - Rockingham NightRider service)
NB: The NightRider service will drop you off at any point along its route, but only picks up at Milligan Street (near the corner of James Street). If there are no passengers waiting at departure time, the service will not run.
For more information visit NightRider services.
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How Do I Purchase a Train/Bus/Ferry Ticket?
You must have a valid ticket to travel on Transperth services. . If you travel on Perth trains without a valid ticket you can be fined. Tickets are valid for 2-3 hours and can be used on Transperth trains, buses and ferries.
Transperth determines fares by dividing its service areas into zones. There are nine Transperth zones which are defined by circles centred on Perth city. Fares are calculated by the number of zones you travel through on each journey. I f you travel within one zone you only need a 1-zone ticket. If you travel over the zone boundary into another zone, you need a 2-zone ticket and so on.
Transperth has two types of ticketing, SmartRider and cash tickets.
A SmartRider card is a cash-free way to travel on Perth’s buses and trains. It will calculate your fare costs, and also provide you with cheaper fares. If you are using public transport regularly, it would be a worthwhile investment. Information on SmartRider cards, bus and train routes and timetables can be obtained from bus terminals or major train stations, or you can contact Transperth on 13 62 13.
Train Tickets can be purchased through coin operated machines at trains stations and should be obtained before boarding Train tickets can be purchased on the platforms from machines which take coins only.
Bus Tickets can be purchased from the driver or vending machines at train stations.
Ferry Tickets are available from the ferry driver or vending machines on both jetties.
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What are the Train/Bus/Ferry Timetables?
Bus, train and ferry timetables and route information is available from Transperth Information centres located at the Wellington Street Bus Station and the Perth City Train Station, both located on Wellington St in the Perth CBD, the Esplanade Busport on Mounts Bay Road Perth, and the Plaza Arcade between Hay and Murray St Perth.
Alternatively, you can check online at www.transperth.com.au or
call the Infoline on 13 62 13.
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What are the Train Services to Travel to Country WA?
Government rail operator TransWA (www.transwa.wa.gov.au ) has daily train services to Bunbury (The Australind), Kalgoorlie (The Prospector) and Northam (The Avonlink). They service many other destinations in Western Australia by coach. For timetable information and bookings, call 1300 662 205.
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What are the Train Services to Travel Interstate?
The Indian Pacific (www.gsr.com.au)train service across the Nullarbor Plain is one of the great train journeys of the world. It departs from East Perth Terminal in West Parade. Further details can be obtained by calling 13 21 47.
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Can I take a Bike on the Train?
Transperth allows you to bring your bike into the City at no extra cost. Your bike can accompany you when travelling on trains during off peak times, weekends and public holidays, and are permitted anytime on Transperth Ferries.
Check with www.transperth.com.au to read the conditions that apply when planning your trip.
Free bike lockers and u-rails are installed at all train stations. You will need to provide your own lock and contents are left at your own risk.
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Are Trains Accessible for Mobility Impaired People?
Public transport in Perth is increasingly able to cater for passengers with disabilities. Transperth staff are available to assist wheelchair users to access metro trains. All buses on the CAT routes and Circle routes are accessible, as are any buses displaying the blue wheelchair symbol. For information about access on specific suburban routes, call Transperth on 13 62 13.
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Air Travel:
Where is the Airport Located?
Perth has separate domestic and international terminals. The international terminal is on the south side of the runway, and the domestic terminals are on the north side. The domestic terminal is broken into two terminals, one for Qantas and the other for a variety of other domestic airline services.
Perth's international and domestic airports are located 16km and 11km respectively South East of the city, and are south of Guildford. The airport is located near major arterial roads, Great Eastern Highway and Tonkin Highway. The domestic terminal is also accessible from the city by public transport buses, and transfers between terminals are available by use of an inter-terminal transfer bus or taxi. It is the fourth busiest airport in Australia and plays a strategic role due to its location – servicing many Australian, Asian, Indian Ocean, Pacific locations, as well as Johannesburg, South Africa and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Further details at: www.perthairport.net.au
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What are the Major Domestic Airlines?
The Domestic Airlines running through Perth offer a choice to patrons flying interstate or within Western Australia itself. Perth is serviced mainly by Qantas Airlines, but also has several smaller internal airlines to offer more choice to customers. The domestic airport previously also served as the international airport, until the new international terminal was opened in 1986. Since the opening of the new international terminal, renovations have been made and now the domestic terminal consists of two main buildings, one for Qantas and the other for smaller internal domestic airlines. Both terminals are very comfortable and have modern facilities to ease your arrival or departure from Perth.
Qantas, Virgin Blue and Jetstar are the major domestic carriers. The airlines operate regular services throughout the day from Australia’s major cities. More recently, another budget airline, Tiger Airways has commenced business in Australia providing further options for travellers.
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What is Available for International Travel?
The Perth International Terminal acts as a gateway to Australia for visitors from Africa and Asia, and is as close as five hours flying time from Asia. The airport has between 15 and 25 flights a day, with more than 40 different airlines servicing the state. The airport was completed in 1986 for the ever increasing number of tourists visiting Western Australia, and for the America's Cup. The airport is well laid out, and includes many modern facilities to ease your arrival or departure from Western Australia. Before you go through immigration on arrival you will be able to do last minute duty free shopping.
Flying time from Perth to other cities |
Adelaide |
3 hours 10 mins |
Amsterdam |
17 hours 40 mins |
Auckland |
6 hours 40 mins |
Bangkok |
6 hours 40 mins |
Frankfurt |
16 hours 50 mins |
Hong Kong |
7 hours 20 mins |
Jakarta |
4 hours 10 mins |
Johannesburg |
9 hours 25 mins |
Kuala Lumpur |
5 hours 10 mins |
London |
17 hours 30 mins |
Los Angeles |
17 hours 30 mins |
Melbourne |
4 hours |
San Francisco |
19 hours |
Singapore |
4 hours 50 mins |
Sydney |
4 hours 50 mins |
Tokyo |
10 hours 25 mins |
Vancouver |
18 hours 40 mins |
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What Transport Options are Available To & From the Airport?
Shuttle buses, hire cars and taxis operate between the airports, and Perth and Fremantle.
Transperth route 37 operates between the domestic airport and St Georges Terrace in the Perth city centre. Buses depart from the airport approximately every half an hour during the day, and hourly after 6.00pm and all day Sunday. Transfer time is approximately 40 minutes.
Taxis are available at the international and domestic airports. Transfer time from the international airport to the city is 30 minutes and 20 minutes from the domestic airport. The fare is around $35-$40 and $25-$30 respectively.
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Additional Information & Web Reference List:
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