Discover Perth Public Transportation: Best Routes and Travel Tips

On my second day in Perth, I decided to explore the city’s public transportation system by taking a bus. Since I hadn’t yet obtained a bus card, I made sure to have some cash on hand, not realizing that buses here still accept cash payments. As I boarded the first bus, the driver hurriedly instructed me to move to the back, leaving no time for me to pay my fare 😧 (though I still managed to hand him the money).

Just as I settled into my seat, an unpleasant encounter with a racist individual left me feeling uneasy.

I quickly switched to another bus, only to find a ticket inspector on board, reminding me of the strict checks I had experienced on Beijing’s buses. I explained that I only had a $10 bill, and to my surprise, the inspector said he didn’t have change and allowed me to ride for free.

Reflecting on the experience, I realized that with such high empty seat rates, the challenges in collecting fares, low population density, and a road infrastructure designed primarily for cars, it’s no wonder that this city’s public transportation faces significant hurdles in its development.