Queensland Transport Operating Hours: Buses, Trains, Ferries & Trams

Queensland's public transport network (Translink) spans buses, trains, ferries, and trams (Gold Coast only). Operating hours vary by mode, route, and day type. Below is a general guide—always check the Translink website/app or operator for real-time schedules.

Buses (Statewide)

• Typical span: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM (weekdays); reduced weekends/holidays.
• Frequency: 15–30 min peak; 30–60 min off-peak; hourly or less in outer suburbs/regional.
• Night services: Limited "NightLink" on weekends in Brisbane/Gold Coast/Sunshine Coast (until ~3 AM).
• Public holidays: Sunday schedule or reduced; some routes suspended.

Trains (South East Queensland – Citytrain)

• Typical span: 4:30 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight); 24-hr on some lines (e.g., Airport line).
• Frequency: 5–10 min peak (inner); 15–30 min off-peak; 30–60 min outer/regional.
• Weekends: 15–30 min core; 30–60 min outer.
• Holidays: Sunday timetable; Christmas Day severely limited.

Ferries (Brisbane – CityCat, CityFerry, KittyCat)

• CityCat (catamarans): 5:30 AM – 11:00 PM; 15–30 min frequency.
• CityFerry/KittyCat (cross-river): 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM; 20–30 min.
• Weekends/Holidays: Similar span, slightly reduced frequency.
• Weather: Suspended in extreme floods/winds.

Trams (Gold Coast – G:link)

• Span: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (weekdays); 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM (weekends).
• Frequency: 7.5 min peak; 15 min off-peak; 20 min evenings.
• Holidays: Weekend schedule; check for event extensions.

Regional Services (Translink Regional, Queensland Rail Traveltrain)

• Long-distance trains (Spirit of Queensland, Spirit of the Outback, Westlander, Inlander, Sunlander): 1–6 services/week; book ahead.
• Regional buses: Vary widely; some daily, some 2–3×/week.

How to Get Exact Times

• Translink Journey Planner (web/app) – real-time, door-to-door.
• Operator sites: Brisbane Metro, Kinetic, CDC Queensland, G:link, Queensland Rail.
• Google Maps / Apple Maps – integrate Translink GTFS data.
• Phone: 13 12 30 (Translink, 24/7).

Pro tip: Get a go card (contactless smartcard) for 20–30% off paper fares and auto top-up. Concession cards for students/seniors halve fares again.