INIT provides Account-based Ticketing system for Sydney
(© AdobeStock)
Karlsruhe / Germany, Sydney/Australia – 6 May 2026
++ Update 10 September 2026 in coordination with TfNSW ++
INIT will deliver a modern account-based ticketing system for Sydney public transport operator Transport for NSW (TfNSW), as part of the Opal 2.0 Program, upgrading Australia’s largest public transport ticketing system. In an account-based ticketing system, tickets and funds are managed in the background system, while the ticket itself serves solely as a means of identification. INIT will install more than 25,000 validators across the Sydney public transport network, supporting fast and convenient contactless payments. The upgraded system will make travelling easier for people in Sydney and visitors alike with seamless tap on and tap off travel, automatic fare calculation and fare capping. That means passengers will always travel at the best price. Passengers will also have greater flexibility in how they pay, including with credit and debit cards or smart devices.
25.000 INIT validators will continue to allow for contactless payments in the Sydney region, either firmly installed in vehicles or integrated into mounting poles or faregates (as seen here). © INIT
Sydney’s Opal system was introduced 13 years ago and is now undergoing its most significant transformation since launch. Contactless technology and easier ways for passengers to save money will give TfNSW and their passengers an upgraded, easy to handle fare management solution that makes fares clearer, payments more flexible, and the public transport network easier to use. With more than 600 million trips per year, TfNSW is one of the largest operators in Australia. As part of the modernisation, more than 25,000 new Opal readers will be installed across buses, as well as at stations for trains, light rail, metro and ferry wharves across the network. The Opal 2.0 rollout is expected to be completed by early 2029 and will be supported by a ten-year operations contract.
During a media conference in Sydney Harbour, INIT Executive Vice President MENA-ANZ Eyad Tayeb showed officials how easy account-based ticketing will be for TfNSW’s passengers. © INIT
A multitude of upgrades will make travelling easier for people in Sydney and visitors alike with seamless tap on and tap off travel, automatic fare calculation and fare capping. TfNSW also plans to introduce digital Opal cards that – like credit cards - are linked to the account-based system and can be accessed with the passengers’ device of choice. After tapping on, the passengers will be able to receive personalised notifications with advice on their trip and fare. Looking ahead, the system will also support new ticketing options, including QR code-based single-trip tickets and other barcode products. Its fleibility will also make it easier for TfNSW to introduce integrated ticketing products, special fares and offers over time.
No matter which media they use, checking in and out is possible with a multitude of different media. Passengers do not have to use the same device for both checking in and out. © INIT
The new ticketing system is meant to further mobilise passengers in and around the NSW capital. Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns, said:
“At a time when families are under pressure, we are focused on making public transport a more reliable and affordable option for millions of people across NSW. This upgrade is about improving the everyday experience, making it easier to get around, save money and rely on public transport.”
Minister for Transport, John Graham added: “Opal was introduced more than six years before the first metro service even ran in Sydney. It’s time for this tech-led transformation.”
NSW Transport Secretary, Josh Murray acknowledged: “This is the next frontier of Opal – helping us to achieve a safe, equitable, accessible and integrated transport network.”
To INIT, one of the worldwide forerunners in account-based ticketing with successfully running projects in Europe and the United States, the order from Sydney is a milestone, as INIT Executive Vice President MENA-ANZ Eyad Tayeb underlined: “INIT has pioneered account-based Ticketing in North America, Europe and beyond, helping cities build public transport systems that are more flexible, passenger-centric, and ready for the future. We are pleased to be bringing this modern technology to NSW and set a new benchmark globally together with our valued customer TfNSW.”
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25.000 INIT validators will continue to allow for contactless payments in the Sydney region, either firmly installed in vehicles or integrated into mounting poles or faregates (as seen here). (© INIT )
During a media conference in Sydney Harbour, INIT Executive Vice President MENA-ANZ Eyad Tayeb showed officials how easy account-based ticketing will be for TfNSW’s passengers. (© INIT)
No matter which media they use, checking in and out is possible with a multitude of different media. Passengers do not have to use the same device for both checking in and out. (© INIT)
Head of Department Corporate Marketing
INIT worldwide
Phone: +49 721 6100 113
Fax: +49 721 6100 399