How to get to University in Australia

The mobile student – how to get to university in Australia

Australian cities are large, sprawling places. The density of housing is generally lower and travelling distances often greater than overseas. This raises the question: How am I going to get to uni?

The answer to this depends a lot on where you live, what university you attend and your financial state. Some universities such as Flinders University in Adelaide, offer accommodation on campus and others are close to cheap, rental accommodation. However, the reality for most students will involve a certain amount of travel.

Let’s look at the alternatives.


The motor car:

Some universities provide car parking, many do not. Apart from the cost of owning and running a motor car, you will probably have to pay for parking. Assuming that you can afford to drive to uni, whether it is practical or not will depend on the university, where it’s located and the facilities provided.


The motorcycle:

Although cheaper to run, they are usually more expensive to register and insure than a car. You are more likely to be able to park near your university, sometimes for free. Again, the practicality of riding a motorcycle will depend on the circumstances.


The bicycle ... or push bike as it’s often called in Australia:

Australian cities are generally cycling friendly. All Australian cities have well developed bicycle path networks though they often do not take you to where you want to go. Commuting by bicycle is a practical option in Australian cities and is becoming increasingly popular.

Few universities provide shower/changing facilities. Most provide racks to lock your bike to but it will be out in the weather. You will need a strong lock to prevent theft but on most campuses, your bike will be reasonably safe from vandalism. A cheap, second hand bike is the best option.

Australian cites are well served with bicycle shops though few sell second hand bikes. Some general second hand dealers sell bikes but they are generally of poor quality. However, second hand bikes are easy to buy via newspapers and on-line auction sites such as ebay. A second hand bike in good condition can easily be found for under $200.


Public Transport.

All Australian cities have an efficient, low cost public transport system. Student concessions are available on tickets and all systems offer ‘multi-trip’ options ie, you buy a discounted ticket that provides you with more than one trip.

The tickets are usually time  based – you are given a certain amount of travelling time, usually two hours, and can take as many trips as you like within that time for the price of one. In cities where there is a variety of public transport modes – trams, trains and buses – your ticket will allow you to use any or a mix of these ie, you can catch a bus to a train station then transfer to a train for the price of one trip.

Australian cities are big places. Cheap, practical transport is available, you only need to decide what best suits your needs.

Richard Spurling