Western Australia Transportation

Because of the vast distances between towns and the dearth of long-haul transportation, many travelers—even those on a budget—buy cars or campervans for long visits (see Buying and Selling Used Cars). The thriving market for used vehicles is fueled by message boards and The West Australian classifieds. Used car dealerships line Beaufort St. in and around Mt. Lawley, north of Northbridge, while used and new campervans can be found in Northbridge at Wicked Campervans on Shenton St., and Traveller’s Auto Barn on Newcastle St. Before paying, have the vehicle checked by a mechanic; some car dealers prey on backpackers. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC), 832 Wellington St., offers inspections for members and provides roadside assistance. (☎13 17 03, roadside assistance 13 11 11. 1yr. roadside assistance $108, includes $36 joining fee.) For more info on cars and driving, see On the Road.

For budget-conscious backpackers, the most popular and reasonably-priced way to get around Western Australia is on Easyrider bus tours, which offer “jump on, jump off” service to nearly all towns worth visiting. Drivers are usually young and act as de facto tour guides; they work with local hostels to arrange convenient pickup and drop-off times, and have deals with some restaurants to offer cheaper food for Easyrider clients.

Passenger rail service is virtually nonexistent, with the exception of the Kalgoorlie-Perth route, serviced by Indian Pacific and Transwa Prospector, and a commuter train from Perth to Bunbury. South West Coach Lines operates bus services southwest of Perth. Transwa buses operate in the southwest as well as north to Kalbarri, while Integrity Buslines runs to Port Hedland. Greyhound Australia offers flexible travel options and runs buses to Adelaide, Darwin, and Exmouth, with stops at major cities along the way. For more info, see By Bus.

Portions of Western Australia can be toured by bicycle, but you should carry significant amounts of water with you at all times. In northern reaches of the state, it’s not advisable to bike in the hot, wet months (Nov.-Apr.). Alert regional police of your itinerary. The Department of Sport and Recreation (☎08 9492 9700; www.dsr.wa.gov.au) has more information on traveling by bicycle.

Western Australia National Parks. Access to national parks in Western Australia requires a pass, available from DEC offices and most visitors centers. Individual parks: Day Pass $10 per vehicle. All parks in WA: Holiday Pass (4 weeks) $35 per vehicle.