Metro Tasmania
Bus Reviews
Metro Tasmania Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Bus for You?
Operating the largest passenger transport network in the state, Metro Tasmania is a state-owned business responsible for keeping Hobart, Launceston, and Burnie moving. Because Tasmania does not have a commuter rail or tram network, buses are the absolute lifeblood of the state’s public transit system.
For travelers and locals in 2026, the Tasmanian Government has implemented highly aggressive fare discounts and free-travel initiatives to ease the cost of living and encourage public transport use.
Metro Tasmania at a Glance
Onboard Experience: What to Expect
Metro Tasmania operates a heavily standardized fleet of urban transit buses.
The Commuter Experience
The buses are standard low-floor, wheelchair-accessible commuter vehicles. Because Hobart and Launceston feature steep, hilly terrain, the buses are heavy-duty workhorses. They are functional, clean, and geared toward short-to-medium urban commutes. Do not expect luxury coach amenities like Wi-Fi or USB charging, as these are municipal transit vehicles.
School Services
A massive portion of Metro Tasmania’s daily operations revolves around dedicated school routes. During the morning and afternoon peaks, thousands of students rely entirely on the network, meaning standard commuter buses can get very crowded during these windows.
Ticketing & Fares (Updated 2026)
Major 2026 Update: To ease the cost of living, the Tasmanian Government has frequently utilized half-price fare initiatives, and in early 2026, enacted a period of completely free public transport travel across the state. (Always check the current status on the Department of State Growth website).
| Ticketing Method | How It Works |
| GreenCard | A reusable smartcard. Tap on when boarding. It automatically deducts the correct fare (or registers a $0 ride during free periods) and caps your daily spending. |
| Cash Fares | You can still pay cash to the driver for a paper ticket, but fares are 20% higher than using a GreenCard. |
| Contactless Trial | A modern “Tap on / Tap off” system using Visa/Mastercard is currently rolling out (starting with the Derwent Ferries) and moving toward the bus network. |
Student Travel: Full-time students attending recognized schools are eligible for free travel passes or heavily discounted concession fares until the end of the year they turn 18.
Customer Service & Reliability
Pros & Cons of Traveling with Metro Tasmania
Pros:
Cons:
Have You Ridden Metro Tasmania?
Your experience helps other travelers make informed decisions! Do you use a GreenCard daily, or did you ride during the 2026 free travel period?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Metro Tasmania
Can I pay with cash on a Metro Tasmania bus?
Yes, unlike many mainland Australian cities, Metro Tasmania still accepts cash boarding. However, paying with cash is more expensive than using a GreenCard, and exact change is highly appreciated by the drivers.
What is a GreenCard?
The GreenCard is Metro Tasmania’s official smartcard. You preload it with travel credit online or at a retail agent, and simply tap the card on the reader when you board the bus.
Is public transport free in Tasmania?
In response to cost-of-living pressures, the Tasmanian Government has implemented several aggressive fare-reduction campaigns in 2026, including periods where all public transport (buses and ferries) is 100% free. When these periods end, heavily subsidized half-price fares or daily caps usually take effect.
Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the operator before booking.