What is Smart Ticketing?
The Smart Ticketing project is a Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) initiative that is is introducing new ways to pay for travel. Smart Ticketing is making it easier for you to plan, catch and pay for public transport by:
- introducing new contactless payment methods
- upgrading existing ticketing equipment
- delivering new digital channels to improve how customers can self-manage their travel account online
Contactless payment methods
Smart Ticketing enables you to pay for travel on public transport with contactless Visa, Mastercard and American Express debit or credit cards using your card or any smart device you have linked to your card (such as your smartphone or smart watch).
Convenient
Paying with your contactless debit or credit card means there’s no need to worry about keeping track if your go card, or making sure it's topped up regularly.
Safe
A safe and privacy compliant method to pay for travel. Your data is protected with the same high-security standards used by banks, so you can ride with peace of mind.
Easy
Simply tap your card or smart device at the start and end of your trip just like you would with your go card. Learn more about how to use contactless payments.
Contactless payment availability
Right now, you can use contactless cards and devices to pay for adult fares on all South East Queensland trains (Queensland Rail and Airtrain), trams (G:link), and Brisbane River ferries. It is now being progressively rolled out on South East Queensland buses.
Contactless payments will eventually be available for all modes of transport and both adult and concession fares throughout South East Queensland and on 18 regional urban bus services.
Contactless payment fares and discounts
The same fares apply to contactless payments as an adult go card, which is 30% cheaper than buying a paper ticket. Find your exact fare on the Zones and Fares page or by using the Journey Planner.
Just like when you use your go card, Translink may charge a default fare if you don't tap on at the start of your trip or tap off at the end of your trip.
How to pay using your contactless card or device
Using contactless payment methods is similar to using a go card, but there are a few important differences to be aware of. Learn more.
