Contactless Concession Fares Now Available

Eligible concession passengers now have more ways to pay when travelling on the Opal network.

University and TAFE students, apprentices, trainees and eligible Centrelink customers can link their concession entitlement to a contactless credit or debit card. Once linked, passengers can tap on and tap off using their payment card, phone or smartwatch while receiving the same discounted concession fares and Opal benefits.

Using contactless payment is optional. Eligible passengers may continue using their existing Concession Opal card if preferred.

Who can use contactless concession fares?

Contactless concession fares are currently available to eligible:

  • University and TAFE students
  • Apprentices and trainees
  • Centrelink customers

Contactless concession payments are not currently available for Child/Youth or School fares. Gold Senior/Pensioner cardholders will receive access at a later date.

How to get started

To set up contactless concession payments:

  1. Check your eligibility for Concession Opal fares.
  2. Create or log in to a Transport Connect account.
  3. Add your concession entitlement.
  4. Link an American Express, Mastercard or Visa credit or debit card.
  5. Use the linked card or its digital version to tap on and tap off.

The concession fare will become available from midnight following successful registration.

Always use the same card or device

Passengers must use the same linked card or device to tap on and tap off throughout their journey.

A physical bank card, phone and smartwatch are treated as separate payment methods — even when they are connected to the same bank account. Switching between them may result in an Adult fare or multiple default fares being charged.

Passengers should also ensure their device remains charged so they can tap off at the end of their journey.

Carry proof of concession entitlement

Passengers must continue to carry valid proof of their concession entitlement when travelling. This may need to be shown to an Authorised Officer together with the card or device used to pay the fare.

Existing Concession Opal card balances

Passengers switching to contactless concession payments will have a 30-day transition period. During this time, they should:

  • Use any remaining balance on their Concession Opal card
  • Turn off Auto Top Up, if enabled

If funds remain after the transition period and the Opal card is cancelled, a refund may be requested within 90 days in accordance with the Opal Refund and Transfer Policy.

For eligibility requirements, setup instructions and further information, visit Contactless concessions.