Are They Starting to Charge for Sydney Trackwork Buses Now?

LDebuting on 26/12/2019 - 18:41

I noticed in the opal app it now comes up with trackwork buses having a fare.

Is this a new thing? (referring to the central to campsie route)

Comments

I Smell Pennies on 26/12/2019 - 20:49

hasn't it always been the same price as if you had the train ride?
- Zazer on 26/12/2019 - 21:46
  
  Nah, not always. Sometimes they disable the opal readers.
dcuksuop on 26/12/2019 - 21:48

+1

technically they always have a fare, same as the train they replace. whether you actually need to tap is another story. I never had to. some replacement buses don't even have opal tap machines.
pao2x on 26/12/2019 - 22:02

While a fare is technically required on replacement buses it has never been necessary unless you need a train/ferry transfer
flam on 10/01/2020 - 20:44

I went on a trackwork bus and they were getting people to tap on, but it didn't take contactless (credit card) so I couldn't tap on. Still got a ride. I would lodge a query via your Opal account about the fare - seems strange that you get charged an additional amount but get a poorer service (have to change, usually takes longer).

Unfortunately the Transport for NSW website isn't very clear either:

"You may not need to tap on or tap off from a replacement bus service, however you must still carry a valid ticket. Please have your Opal card, contactless payment card, or Opal single trip ticket before boarding. Fines apply if you travel without a valid ticket."
- Debuting on 10/01/2020 - 20:50
  
  -1
  
  Yeah, I've been paying for the trackwork buses too. lol. I forgot to reply.
  
  I think it's the new normal.