The Faces of Adelaide's Commute: Stories from the City's Transport Network

Every day, over 140,000 people commute to the Adelaide CBD for work, with many more travelling to the city's surrounding suburbs and beaches.

As the city continues to grow and develop, its transport network is becoming increasingly important. With the recent announcement of a new tram line extension and improved bus services, Adelaide is investing heavily in its transport infrastructure. But what makes Adelaide's commute truly special is the people who use it. From the early morning cyclists on Frome Street to the late-night revellers on Hindley Street, the city's transport network is filled with unique and fascinating characters.

Local organisations such as the Adelaide City Council and the Royal Automobile Association of South Australia (RAA) are working to improve the city's transport network and make it more accessible to all. The council's recent introduction of a new bike-share scheme, which includes stations on North Terrace and at the Adelaide Railway Station, has been a huge success, with over 10,000 trips taken in the first month. Meanwhile, the RAA is advocating for improved road safety and reduced congestion on major roads such as Port Road and South Road.

Commute by the Numbers

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the average commute time in Adelaide is 34 minutes, with 63% of commuters travelling to work by car. However, there is a growing trend towards more sustainable transport options, with a 25% increase in the number of people cycling to work in the past five years. The cost of commuting in Adelaide can also be significant, with the average household spending over $15,000 per year on transport. As of July 2026, a monthly public transport pass in Adelaide costs $95.50, making it a more affordable option for many commuters.

So what happens next for Adelaide's transport network? With the city's population projected to grow by 10% in the next five years, there will be an increasing need for efficient and sustainable transport options. The state government has announced plans to invest $1 billion in transport infrastructure over the next decade, including improvements to the city's tram and bus networks. As the city continues to evolve and grow, it will be the people who use its transport network that will make it truly special. Whether you're a daily commuter or just visiting the city, taking the time to appreciate the unique characters and stories that make up Adelaide's transport network is sure to make your journey more enjoyable.