Transport NSW has announced you can now pay for your travel using contactless cards. This does include wireless payments with Apple Pay, Apple’s secure mobile payment and digital wallet service.
Contactless Payments
The service has been rolled out on the Sydney Ferries and Light Train (Trams) network. Including at popular tourist destinations like Manly, Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, the International Convention Centre, Star Casino and Sydney Fish Markets.
Working very similar to Opal cards, you simply need to tap your Apple Pay-enabled iPhone or Apple Watch on the reader. You will then be charged an Adult Opal single trip ticket without needing to buy a ticket from an Opal ticket machine.
Sydney commuters can now 'tap on' for single trips using their phones, tablets and smartwatches instead of Opal cards when travelling on Sydney Ferries and Light Rail. Report on 7 News at 6pm. https://t.co/A31jY1KoJh #SydneyFerries #SydneyLightRail #7News pic.twitter.com/KU0eHgvde4
— 7 News Sydney (@7NewsSydney) March 12, 2018
To pay using Apple Pay you will need to ensure you have a bank which supports it (for example, ANZ or ING) and an eligible card linked. Those are VISA, American Express, and Mastercards.
Downsides
Unfortunately, there are some downsides to using contactless over the Opal Card. Firstly, you will not get any of the Opal benefits which include:
- Weekly Travel Rewards
- Transfer Discounts
- Daily and Weekly Travel Caps
- Always have funds to travel with auto top up
Secondly, the service has not yet been rolled out on NSW/Sydney Trains. However, that is due to happen later in 2018.
You can learn more about Apple Pay on Apple’s website or about the new service at NSW Transport.
Image by EFTM.
