INIT provides Account-based Ticketing system for Sydney
(© AdobeStock)
Karlsruhe / Germany, Sydney/Australia – 6 May 2026
INIT will implement an account-based ticketing system for Sydney public transport operator Transport for NSW (TfNSW). In an account-based ticketing system, tickets and funds are managed in the cloud, while the ticket itself serves solely as a means of identification. The contract for TfNSW’s Opal 2.0 project comprises an upgrade of their Opal ticketing system. INIT will install 25,000 validators across the Sydney public transport network to enable easy contactless payments. The up-to-date system will make travelling easier for people in Sydney and visitors alike thanks to an easy distance-based check-in / check-out system with fare capping. That means passengers will always travel at the best price. In addition, passengers will also be able to conveniently pay using their credit card or smartphone.
25.000 INIT validators will 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 will now get the biggest overhaul since its implementation. Contactless technology, easier ways for passengers to save money and the introduction of a digital Opal card will give TfNSW and their passengers an up-to-date 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 belongs to the largest operators in Australia. As part of the modernisation, more than 25,000 new Opal readers are being installed on buses as well as at stations for light rail, metro and ferry services. The completion of the Opal 2.0 system is expected in 2028. The contract is set for a ten-year operations period.
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 help make public transportation more seamless and more flexible for passengers. Fares will automatically be adjusted if an incorrect fare is charged, without needing to contact customer service. Digital Opal cards will be introduced 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 receive personalised notifications with advice on their trip and fare. The clou is, that passengers can use any of their registered media for the check-out. They no longer need to ensure using the same device for check-in and out, which is a big plus in usability of the system. In addition, event-goers can scan the QR code on their ticket at an Opal reader to access free transport. The system’s high flexibility will allow TfNSW to easily handle their tariff management.
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 mobilize 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, to save money and easier to rely on public transport.” The 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 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)
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