Australia's long-distance train services offer budget-friendly travel options, with Western Australia slashing fares by 50% this year and children in New South Wales (NSW) travelling for just $1. However, passengers should not expect luxury or speed. The XPT, a 43-year-old workhorse connecting Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane via 38 stations, is functional and affordable but leaves much to be desired.
Fares for A-to-B journeys such as Melbourne to Sydney or Sydney to Brisbane cost around $100, comparable to low-range airfares. The Sydney-Melbourne route runs twice daily each way, while Sydney-Brisbane has one direct service each way. A little-known quirk allows up to four children to travel for $1 each with an adult from their household; children under three travel free but must have a reserved seat.
However, the journey from Melbourne to Brisbane takes nearly two days, including an eight-hour layover in Sydney. For those seeking adventure, the Discovery Pass offers hop-on hop-off travel on the NSW TrainLink network, starting at $232 for 14 days, with longer passes available. Passes are available to NSW residents and international visitors.
The XPT trains lack charging ports and wifi, effectively acting as a mobile Faraday cage. Refreshments include microwave meals and scones with jam, but passengers should bring cash as Eftpos is unreliable. First-class offers slightly more legroom and recline for an extra $40 on the Melbourne-Sydney route. The XPT fleet is set to be replaced by new Spanish-built trains, which began testing in February 2025 and will include wifi and charging ports.
NSW TrainLink's Xplorer trains, over 30 years old, service regional routes to Armidale, Moree, Griffith, Broken Hill and Canberra. They are also due for replacement. Despite their age, these trains provide access to regional gems for those willing to embrace a slower pace of travel.
