Forget the luxurious, high-priced icons like the Ghan. Across Australia, a different rail experience awaits: robust, affordable, and sprawling state networks that offer a no-frills passage into the heart of the country. While not designed for the time-poor, these services provide an unparalleled, if sometimes bumpy, window into regional Australia, with recent fare cuts making exploration more accessible than ever.
The Eastern Corridor: The Workhorse XPT and State Networks
Linking the major eastern capitals is the NSW TrainLink XPT, a 43-year-old fleet that rattles between Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. A functional and affordable option, a standard adult fare from Melbourne to Sydney costs around $99, comparable to a budget airfare. The journey, however, is a commitment: the full Melbourne-Brisbane trip takes nearly two days.
A significant perk for families is NSW TrainLink's generous child fare policy. Up to four children can travel for just $1 each when accompanied by a fare-paying adult from the same household. For those seeking flexibility, the Discovery Pass offers unlimited travel on the NSW network for 14 days from $232, perfect for hop-on, hop-off adventures.
Life aboard the XPT is a deliberate step back in time. The trains lack wifi, phone charging points, and reliable Eftpos, encouraging a digital detox. First class offers only marginally more legroom and recline for about $40 extra. After years of delays, a new Spanish-built fleet began testing in February 2025, promising modern amenities like charging ports, though sleeper cabins have been scrapped.
Elsewhere in New South Wales and the ACT, ageing Xplorer trains service regional centres like Canberra, Armidale, and Broken Hill. The same $1 child and $2.50 pensioner deals apply, with economy fares starting from approximately $50.
Victoria's Model Network and Queensland's Long Hauls
In stark contrast, Victoria's V/Line network is often hailed as the national benchmark for regional rail. Its modern, purpose-built VLocity trains, introduced in 2005, provide a sleek and comfortable ride. The system is underpinned by a simple, capped daily fare: $11.40 for adults and $5.70 for concessions, valid on most of its 13 lines across the state and even 60km beyond its borders.
Queensland's vast network covers epic distances, from Brisbane to tropical Cairns. The flagship Spirit of Queensland runs a 25-hour journey four times weekly, with economy seats from about $220. For an extra $150, passengers can book a unique 'RailBed' – a seat that converts into a fully flat bed, complete with linen, meals, and in-seat entertainment. Other long-distance services to centres like Longreach and Mount Isa offer basic amenities, with free tea and coffee and, on some routes, showers.
Affordable Access in the West and Sparse Services Elsewhere
In a major boost for affordability, Western Australia has permanently cut fares on its four regional lines by 50%. One-way tickets now range from $4.65 to $69, and include same-day free travel on other regional and metropolitan services.
South Australia's country rail network was largely dismantled in the 1990s. However, the privately operated Overland service continues, connecting Melbourne and Adelaide twice a week on an 11-hour daytime journey, with fares from $150 each way. Tasmania has had no intercity passenger rail since 1978, and the Northern Territory relies solely on the privately operated Ghan.
Australia's regional trains may not offer luxury or speed, but they provide an authentic, budget-friendly artery to the country's often-overlooked towns and landscapes. With strategic fare deals and a spirit of adventure, they remain a compelling choice for the curious traveller.
