Default fares - what you need to know
Why was I charged $2.50?
You may have been charged $2.50 instead of your usual fare either on your go card or on your credit or debit card because the system couldn’t tell where your trip started or ended.
This usually happens when you:
- don’t tap on at the start of your trip, or
- don’t tap off at the end of your trip, or
- tap on and off using different payment methods.
The $2.50 default fare charge is the same for everyone on all Translink services, excluding Airtrain services. The default fare for Airtrain is $24.80 for Adults, Seniors and Concessions, and $2.50 for children.
If you think you might have been charged $2.50 in error, you can request a fare adjustment within 120 days.
What should I do if I’ve been charged a default fare by mistake?
If you’ve been incorrectly charged a default fare – you can request a fare adjustment within 120 days of the charge.
How to request a fare adjustment
- go card
Request an adjustment online or call 13 12 30.
- Contactless credit or debit card
Request an adjustment through the Translink Ticketing Assistant, or call 13 12 30.
Why do default fares exist?
Default fares help ensure a fair go for everyone using public transport in South East Queensland.
They are not a penalty. They encourage correct use of the system and help us collect accurate travel data. This helps us plan more frequent, reliable and efficient services.
Under section 218M of the Transport Operations (Passenger Transport) Regulation 2018, the department may charge a default fare (or fixed fare) if you don't tap on at the start of your trip, or tap off at the end of your trip with your credit or debit card or a go card.
Important things to remember
- Always tap on and tap off using the same payment method. If you tap on with a go card – tap off with the same go card.
- If you use more than one bus, train, ferry or tram for your journey, make sure you follow our transfer rules, so you’re tapping on and off correctly.
- If your go card balance is less than the default fare amount, your card may show insufficient funds for your next trip.
Default fares during major events
During major events we understand it may not be possible for you to tap or on or off at the start or end of your journey.
In these instances, we may reduce the default fare amount, so you don't have to request a fare adjustment.