Paying for bus travel across northern New South Wales is about to get easier, with contactless ticketing now available on Ballina Buslines and Northern Rivers Buslines regular route services.
The upgrade, delivered in collaboration with Transport for NSW (TfNSW), introduces new card readers that allow passengers to tap on with a debit or credit card, smartphone or wearable device when boarding.
The technology aims to make fare payments faster, simpler and more convenient for regular commuters and visitors alike. Customers who prefer to pay by cash can continue to do so, with both payment methods available across all regular routes.
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This latest rollout marks another step forward in Transport for NSW’s regional ticketing program, expanding digital payment options that have already proven successful on major metropolitan networks.
Contactless payments are now live across both operators’ regular services, covering key routes throughout the Northern Rivers and Ballina regions.
Dedicated school bus services are not included in the trial. Students travelling on those routes should continue to use their bus passes or term passes, or pay the applicable cash fare directly to the driver.
Passengers can find more information, including frequently asked questions and details on eligible routes, by visiting the Transport for NSW website at transportnsw.info/contactless-regional-bus.
The move toward contactless ticketing is part of the state’s broader transport modernisation strategy, offering passengers more choice, convenience and consistency across NSW’s growing public transport network.
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