New Opal readers will be installed alongside increased digital ticketing options for public transport passengers. Photo: TfNSW.
The state’s public transport ticketing system is getting an upgrade, with Opal 2.0 set to bring a more convenient, advanced and reliable experience for passengers tapping on and off buses and trains.
A new Opal app, upgraded tap-on reader machines and the introduction of a digital Opal card aims to improve the day-to-day experience of the millions who use the NSW public transport network, as part of the biggest overhaul of the ticketing system in more than a decade.
“This is the next frontier of Opal – helping us to achieve a safe, equitable, accessible and integrated transport network,” Transport Secretary Josh Murray said.
“The original Opal relied on technology from London’s Oyster system, which was first introduced in 2000. Like corresponding technology from the start of the century such as the Blu-ray player and the first Blackberry – it’s time for an overhaul.”
The changes will allow for concession, pensioner or seniors fares to be available through contactless technology as well as the lower weekly fare cap.
Passengers will also benefit from automatic fare adjustment if an incorrect fare is charged, without needing to contact customer service; personalised notifications sent after a passenger taps, with advice on trip and fare; faster and more accurate patronage data to warn how busy onboard an upcoming service will be and the ability for event-goers to scan the QR code on their ticket at an Opal reader to access free transport.
“At a time when families are under pressure, we are focused on making public transport a more reliable and affordable option for millions of people across NSW,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“This upgrade is about improving the everyday experience, making it easier to get around, to save money and easier to rely on public transport.
“We are investing not just in new lines, but in the services people use every day like buses, trains and the systems that keep them running.”
Passenger information screens that display upcoming stops will also be introduced on all Greater Sydney and outer metropolitan buses.
And now the contracts have been awarded to the tech companies which will make it a reality with INIT delivering the ticketing system and Trapeze Group the bus solution.
Contractors will install 25,000 new Opal readers across rail, metro, bus, light rail and ferries, replacing the familiar machines that have now reached their end of life.
Development of the new system will progress throughout 2026 before the first hardware installations, starting in 2027, with completion expected in 2028.
“We are delighted to bring the very latest account-based ticketing technology to NSW,” INIT Executive Vice President MENA-ANZ Eyad Tayeb said.
“Our technology is used in dozens of world-class public transport systems across the globe, including playing a critical role in Atlanta and Houston’s hosting of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, as well as the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Munich.”
The Opal 2.0 budget is currently at $738 million, with new funding for bus upgrades bringing the total investment to $820 million.
Original Article published by Keeli Dyson on Region Illawarra.
