Opal Cards

How to apply

Applications for next year open at the start of Term 4 this year.

You can apply for free school travel for different modes of transport including train, bus, ferry and light rail using the online form. To apply complete the online School Opal card or school travel pass application form at:

apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts

Step 1: You will need an email address to complete the online form. Applications must be made by a parent or legal guardian if the student is under 16 years of age. The student needs to complete and submit the application form if they are 16 years or older.

Step 2: The school endorses the application. You will be advised if you need to do anything further when you have completed your online application.

Step 3: Transport for NSW then processes the application. If the application is approved for travel in the Opal network, a School Opal Card will be sent to the address given in the application form

If the student does not qualify for free travel

The student may be eligible for a Term Bus Pass which offers travel on buses between home and school at a discounted rate for the whole school term. Apply at: www.transportnsw.info/school-students or call 131 500.

For further information, please submit your enquiry here.

Conditions of an Opal Card

See full Terms and Conditions for Opal travel here.

Students must note that a condition of the travel passes requires them to offer their seat to paying patrons.

Online eligibility assessment – the new online application portal will automatically assess eligibility based on distance rules which have not changed.

Eligibility rules – the eligibility rules for subsidised school travel remain the same for travel inside and outside the Opal network. Students may need to live a minimum distance away from their school.

• Year K-2 (Infants): there’s no minimum distance.
• Years 3-6 (Primary): 1.6km straight line distance from the School or 2.3km walking distance or further.
• Years 7-12 (Secondary): 2.0km straight line distance from the School or 2.9km walking distance or further.

If you live too close to be eligible for free travel, you may still qualify for a School Term Bus Pass.

Secondary students aged 16 and over can travel with a Child/Youth Opal card when carrying a NSW/ACT Secondary Student Concession Card, available from School and TAFE offices.

Schools can find out more about the School Student Transport Scheme at: https://transportnsw.info/tickets-opal/ticket-eligibility-concessions/school-student-travel

Who to contact if you need help

Junior School: Mrs Nicole Abbott, Junior School reception and Adminstration via email at Nabbott@sacs.nsw.edu.au or phone 9286 9500.

Middle School: Ms Trish Williams, main school Receptionist via email at TWilliamson@sacs.nsw.edu.au or phone 9286 9500.

Senior College: Ms Amanda Yock, Receptionist, BBC via email at AYock@sacs.nsw.edu.au or phone 9286 9600.

Lost/stolen/damaged Opal Cards

To report and lost, stolen or damaged School Opal card, phone 131 500 or email concessions@transport.nsw.gov.au

What happens in a transport emergency?

Students are required by St Andrew’s Cathedral School to travel directly home at the end of the school day, when not involved in school activities. We strongly encourage students to have a back-up transport plan in the rare situation in which a transport blockage or emergency prevents normal travel.