NSW TrainLink is New South Wales’ regional train and coach network, connecting Sydney to regional centres across the state and to interstate destinations including Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra. If you’ve been searching for CountryLink, this is the same service under its current name (rebranded from CountryLink on 1 July 2013).
This page is a hub guide to the full NSW TrainLink network. For a detailed guide to the flagship Sydney–Melbourne XPT service, including sleeper cabins, journey tips, and fare comparison, see our Melbourne to Sydney Train guide. For Sydney’s suburban and commuter rail network, see Sydney Trains and commuter lines.
What Is NSW TrainLink?
NSW TrainLink is operated by NSW Trains, a division of Transport for NSW. It was established on 1 July 2013 when the state government merged CountryLink’s regional rail and coach services with CityRail’s intercity services into a single operator. CountryLink had itself been running since January 1989. The old CountryLink name still appears in legacy documents and search results, but NSW TrainLink is now the sole operating brand.
From 1 July 2024, all intercity services (Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Newcastle, Hunter, South Coast, and Southern Highlands lines) were transferred to Sydney Trains. NSW TrainLink now operates only long-distance regional and interstate rail and coach services. In May 2025, the NSW Government announced that Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink will eventually merge into a single entity, though no changes affecting customers are expected during 2026.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | NSW Trains (Transport for NSW) |
| Previously known as | CountryLink (1989–2013) |
| Network size | 93 rail stations, 365+ destinations including coach connections |
| Annual regional journeys | 1.9 million (2023/24) |
| Booking phone | 13 22 32 |
| Booking website | transportnsw.info/regional-travel |
Important: Opal cards cannot be used on NSW TrainLink regional services. All regional and interstate train journeys require an advance reserved-seat booking.
NSW TrainLink Routes from Sydney
All NSW TrainLink rail services depart from Sydney Central station. The network spans four main corridors: North Coast, Western, North Western, and Southern. Between the train network and NSW TrainLink’s coach connections, those of us planning a regional NSW trip can reach towns you’d never expect to access without a car.
NSW Regional Train and Bus Map
Interstate Services
| Route | Train | Journey Time | Frequency | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney to Melbourne | XPT | ~10.5–11 hours | Daily each direction | Campbelltown, Goulburn, Wagga Wagga, Albury |
| Sydney to Brisbane | XPT | ~14.5 hours | Daily each direction | Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Casino |
| Sydney to Canberra | Xplorer | ~4 hours | 3 services daily | Campbelltown, Goulburn, Yass Junction |
The Sydney–Melbourne XPT is NSW TrainLink’s flagship service and the most popular long-distance train route in Australia. Sleeper cabins are available on both the Melbourne and Brisbane overnight services. See the full Melbourne to Sydney Train guide for detailed information on the XPT including sleeper options, stops, and onboard experience.
Regional NSW Services
| Route | Train | Journey Time | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney to Dubbo | XPT | ~6 hours | Penrith, Katoomba, Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange |
| Sydney to Grafton / Casino | XPT | Varies | North Coast corridor via Newcastle |
| Sydney to Armidale / Moree | Xplorer | Varies | Scone, Tamworth, Armidale (service divides at Werris Creek) |
| Sydney to Griffith | Xplorer | Varies | Goulburn, Cootamundra, Junee |
| Sydney to Broken Hill | Xplorer | ~14 hours | Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo, Nyngan |
Check transportnsw.info/regional-travel for current timetables, as frequencies on some routes vary by day of week.
Coach Connections
Beyond the rail network, NSW TrainLink coaches connect towns not served directly by trains. Key destinations reachable by combined train and coach include Port Macquarie, Byron Bay, Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads, Lismore, Ballina, Inverell, Mudgee, and Eden. Note that direct rail to Murwillumbah ended in 2005 — the connection now runs by coach from Casino.
From 1 July 2025, the NSW TrainLink coach network expanded to 49 routes and 638 weekly services (up from 45 routes and 592 services), backed by $290 million in funding over nine years. Modern coaches include wheelchair access, charging points, toilets, and defibrillators.
The Trains: XPT and Xplorer
The XPT
The XPT (Express Passenger Train) has operated NSW’s long-distance routes since 1982. It runs the Sydney–Melbourne, Sydney–Brisbane, Sydney–Dubbo, Sydney–Grafton, and Sydney–Casino services. Each XPT has a diesel-electric power car at each end with a top speed of 160 km/h.
On-board options include Economy and First Class seating, plus sleeping cars on the overnight Sydney–Melbourne and Sydney–Brisbane routes. The buffet car serves hot meals, snacks, and beverages throughout the journey.
In February 2025, the NSW Government announced a $40.3 million, five-year XPT Life Extension Project to refurbish the entire XPT fleet. The first refurbished set returned to service on 28 April 2026 on the Grafton route, wearing a retro livery inspired by the original 1980s State Rail Authority colours (black, red, silver, and warm white). The Grafton XPT had been replaced by coaches for 12 months during the refurbishment program, resuming rail service on 28 April 2026.
The Xplorer
The Xplorer has served NSW regional communities since 1993. Unlike the XPT, each Xplorer carriage carries its own engine, making the fleet highly flexible for routes with varying passenger demand. Xplorer trains operate the Sydney–Canberra, Sydney–Armidale, Sydney–Moree, Sydney–Griffith, and Sydney–Broken Hill services.
The Xplorer fleet (23 carriages) is maintained at Eveleigh Railway Workshops. Configurations range from two to five or more carriages depending on demand. On-board facilities include a buffet car, air-conditioning, allocated and reversible seats, and accessible toilets.
What’s Coming: CAF R-Set Bi-Mode Trains
The NSW Government is replacing the XPT and Xplorer fleets with 29 new CAF Civity bi-mode trains, able to operate under overhead electric power or on diesel traction. The fleet includes 10 long 6-car sets (replacing XPT on major regional routes) and 9 short 3-car sets (replacing Xplorer on regional services).
As of early 2026, nine of the 29 trains have arrived in Australia via Port Kembla, with two sets currently undergoing mainline testing on the Northern, Western, and Richmond lines. Passenger service entry is expected from approximately 2027–2028. Current booking and travel arrangements for 2026 are unaffected.
Booking NSW TrainLink
All NSW TrainLink regional and interstate services require a reserved seat booked in advance. Walk-up travel is not available, and Opal cards are not accepted.
How to Book
- Online: transportnsw.info/regional-travel — saves 5% off standard fares, with Online Saver fares offering up to 35% off selected trips when booked ahead
- Phone: 13 22 32 (available daily) — recommended for sleeper cabin reservations, group bookings, and accessibility requests
- In person: Accredited sales agents at major train stations and NSW TrainLink booking offices
If you’re planning the overnight XPT to Melbourne or Brisbane, book your sleeper cabin as soon as the booking window opens. Those of us who’ve tried to grab a sleeper berth at the last minute know they go quickly on holiday weekends and school holiday periods.
Fare Classes
| Class | Available On | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | All services | Reserved seat, 28-degree recline, buffet car access |
| First Class | XPT and Xplorer | Extra legroom, 40-degree recline, accessible seats |
| Sleeper | Overnight XPT only (Melbourne and Brisbane) | Private 2-berth cabin, converts to day-sitter during daylight, breakfast included |
Concessions and Passes
- Concession fares: Up to 50% off for eligible seniors, pensioners, students, and concession card holders
- Country Pensioner Excursion: $2.50 fare for eligible pensioners
- Pensioner Travel Vouchers: Four free travel vouchers per year for eligible pensioners and seniors
- Children: Ages 4–15 pay approximately 50% off adult fares; a $1 Child fare applies when travelling with a full-paying adult; children under 4 travel free
- Discovery Pass: Unlimited booked travel across the entire NSW TrainLink regional train and coach network. Available in 14-day (from $232), 1-month (from $275), 3-month (from $298), and 6-month (from $420) Economy options. Purchase online only.
Peak fares apply during school holidays, public holidays, and major events. In 2026, peak periods include 5–8 June, 3–19 July, and 25 September–11 October.
What to Expect On Board
Regional train travel is a different experience from catching a suburban Sydney train. These are long-distance journeys with dedicated service staff, reserved seating, and on-board catering.
- Seats: All seats are allocated at booking. Bring your ticket (printed or on your phone) and proof of concession entitlement if applicable.
- Buffet car: Both XPT and Xplorer services have a buffet car serving hot meals, snacks, pastries, and beverages. Cash and card accepted, though carrying some cash is wise as EFTPOS can be unreliable in remote areas.
- Sleeper cabins: Overnight XPT services (Sydney–Melbourne and Sydney–Brisbane) include sleeping cars with private two-berth cabins. They convert to day-sitter seating during daylight hours, and breakfast is included for sleeper passengers.
- Luggage: Regional trains allow more luggage than suburban services. Large bags can be stored in overhead racks and at carriage ends. No formal excess baggage charge for reasonable personal luggage.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets with baby change facilities, and accessible seats are provided on both XPT and Xplorer. Call 13 22 32 in advance if you require assistance.
- Wi-Fi and connectivity: Wi-Fi is not provided on the current XPT or Xplorer fleet. Mobile coverage varies considerably along regional routes. Download entertainment and offline maps before you travel.
- Passenger attendants: Staff are on board throughout the journey, a key difference from automated suburban services.
For the complete guide to the overnight Melbourne service, including what the sleeper experience is actually like and how to make the most of the journey, see the Melbourne to Sydney Train page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NSW TrainLink?
NSW TrainLink is the regional train and coach operator for New South Wales, running long-distance services from Sydney to regional NSW and interstate to Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra. It is operated by NSW Trains under Transport for NSW. NSW TrainLink was created on 1 July 2013 when the state government rebranded and restructured CountryLink, which had operated since 1989.
Is CountryLink still running?
CountryLink no longer exists as a brand. It was replaced by NSW TrainLink on 1 July 2013. The trains, routes, and services are the same; only the name changed. If you’re searching for “CountryLink NSW” or “Country Link train”, you’re looking for NSW TrainLink.
Can I use my Opal card on NSW TrainLink?
No. Opal cards cannot be used on NSW TrainLink regional services. All regional train and coach services require a reserved ticket booked in advance: online at transportnsw.info/regional-travel, by phone on 13 22 32, or in person at a registered sales agent.
How do I book a ticket?
Book online at transportnsw.info/regional-travel (saves 5% vs standard fare), call 13 22 32, or visit an accredited sales agent at a major station. All seats must be reserved in advance. Online Saver fares offer up to 35% off on selected trips when booked ahead.
Does NSW TrainLink go to Melbourne?
Yes. The Sydney–Melbourne XPT runs daily in each direction, taking approximately 10.5–11 hours. Sleeper cabin options are available for the overnight journey. See the Melbourne to Sydney Train guide for full details.
Does NSW TrainLink go to Brisbane?
Yes. The XPT runs daily between Sydney Central and Brisbane Roma Street, taking approximately 14 hours 30 minutes. The service travels via the North Coast line through Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, and Casino. Sleeper cabins are available.
Does NSW TrainLink go to Canberra?
Yes. The Canberra Xplorer runs three times daily between Sydney Central and Canberra station, with a journey time of approximately 4 hours. Services call at Campbelltown, Goulburn, and Yass Junction.
What trains does NSW TrainLink use?
NSW TrainLink currently operates two train types: the XPT (in service since 1982, used on the Melbourne, Brisbane, Dubbo, Grafton, and Casino routes) and the Xplorer (in service since 1993, used on the Canberra, Armidale, Moree, Griffith, and Broken Hill routes). Both are being replaced from approximately 2027–2028 by new CAF bi-mode R-set trains.
What is the Discovery Pass?
The Discovery Pass gives unlimited booked travel across the entire NSW TrainLink regional train and coach network. It’s available in 14-day (from $232), 1-month (from $275), 3-month (from $298), and 6-month (from $420) Economy options. Purchase online only at transportnsw.info/regional-travel.
Are there sleeper trains in NSW?
Yes. Sleeper cabins are available on overnight XPT services: the Sydney–Melbourne and Sydney–Brisbane routes. Compartments have two bunks and convert to private day-sitter seating during daylight hours. Breakfast is included. Book early as sleeper availability is limited, especially during school holiday periods.
Can I get to Broken Hill by train?
Yes. NSW TrainLink operates a weekly Xplorer service from Sydney Central to Broken Hill, travelling via Penrith, Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo, and Nyngan. The journey takes approximately 14 hours.
How do I get to Murwillumbah by train?
Direct rail service to Murwillumbah ended in 2005. Today, travellers catch the XPT to Casino and then connect with an NSW TrainLink coach service to Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads, and beyond.
What are the new NSW regional trains?
The NSW Government is replacing the XPT and Xplorer fleets with 29 new CAF Civity bi-mode trains, able to run on both electric overhead power and diesel. As of early 2026, nine trains have arrived in Australia and testing is underway on the Northern, Western, and Richmond lines. Passenger service entry is expected from approximately 2027–2028.
For Sydney’s broader public transport network, including suburban trains, ferries, buses, and light rail, see the Sydney Public Transport Guide.