How to Get to the Australian Open Using Public Transport

Getting to the Australian Open using public transport is the most reliable option during the tournament, as road closures and parking limits make driving unpredictable around Melbourne Park.

For 2026, transport access in Melbourne has improved significantly with additional train connections, free travel promotions, and dedicated tram services for ticket holders.

In this guide, I’ll explain the easiest ways for you to arrive by train or tram, and what to expect on match days.

What is the easiest way to get to the Australian Open?

The easiest way to get to the Australian Open is by train, followed by a short walk to Melbourne Park.

You can arrive via Richmond Station, Flinders Street Station, or Jolimont Station, all of which are within easy walking distance of the venue and clearly signposted during the tournament.

From experience, I can say that trains remain the fastest option before and after major sessions, particularly in the evening.

Which train stations are closest to Melbourne Park?

The three closest train stations to Melbourne Park are Richmond Station, Flinders Street Station, and Jolimont Station.

• Richmond Station is the most common choice for suburban lines and sits around a 10-minute walk from Melbourne Park entry gates.
• Flinders Street Station suits visitors staying in the CBD and offers a flat riverside walk past Federation Square.
• Jolimont Station is the closest station overall and is frequently recommended on event signage, especially for eastern entry points.

I usually choose Richmond Station for night sessions because it handles outbound crowds efficiently once play finishes.

How does the Metro Tunnel affect Australian Open travel in 2026?

The opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2026 has improved access to Melbourne Park, particularly from the northern and western parts of the CBD.

The Town Hall Station now connects directly with Flinders Street Station, making it easier to reach Melbourne Park from areas around Swanston Street and the northern city grid without changing lines.

This has reduced congestion at older interchange points and made CBD travel more straightforward on busy match days.

Can you take a tram to the Australian Open?

Yes, trams are a popular way to reach Melbourne Park, especially for visitors staying in the CBD or Docklands.

During the Australian Open, Route 70 and Route 70a trams run directly to stops near Melbourne Park, including John Cain Arena.

Importantly, Australian Open ticket holders and accredited officials can travel for free on Route 70 and 70a trams on the day of their ticket.

This benefit applies specifically to those services and is widely promoted during the tournament.

I have found trams convenient earlier in the day, although trains are usually quicker after evening sessions.

The tram frequency is quite good, so you don’t have to get on a crowded one if you don’t want to. Usually, an empty tram is just behind a fully crowded tram.

Is the Free Tram Zone useful during the Australian Open?

For general travel, Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone does not extend to Melbourne Park.

However, during the Australian Open, the Free Tram Zone is effectively extended for ticket holders and accredited officials when using designated event tram services, including Route 70 and 70a.

This means spectators can often travel from the CBD to Melbourne Park without paying an additional fare, provided they are travelling on approved routes and have a valid ticket.

Do you need a Myki card for the Australian Open?

To use Melbourne’s public transport network, most travellers need a Myki card or a digital Myki.

However, there are two key 2026 exceptions:

• Australian Open ticket holders can travel free on Route 70 and 70a trams on the day of their ticket
• Public transport is free on all weekends until February 1, 2026, as part of celebrations for the Metro Tunnel opening

Outside these conditions, standard Myki fares and daily caps apply.

Under 18’s can travel free with a Youth myKi card.

Is public transport suitable for families and first-time visitors?

Public transport is well-suited to families and first-time visitors attending the Australian Open.

Stations and walking routes are clearly signposted, pram-friendly, and staffed during the event. Allowing extra time after night matches helps reduce crowd pressure, especially when travelling with children.

When attending with family, I usually wait a few minutes after matches finish before heading back to the station.

Is public transport better than driving?

100%. Public transport is consistently more predictable than driving during the Australian Open.

Temporary road closures, limited parking near Melbourne Park, and post-match traffic congestion make driving stressful for most visitors.

Trains and trams avoid these issues and deliver spectators close to the venue.

For repeat attendees, public transport quickly becomes the default choice.

Planning beyond transport

Transport planning is only one part of attending the Australian Open. Session times, match schedules, food options, and nearby attractions can all influence how you plan your day.

For a full overview, including event tips and local planning advice, see the complete Australian Open Melbourne guide on Discover Melbourne.