Commuting to Parramatta? Here are your options
Parramatta is well connected with a range of public transport options, active transport alternatives, and an extensive road network.
Commuting to Parramatta? Here are your options
Parramatta is well connected with a range of public transport options, active transport alternatives, and an extensive road network. As part of its growth as a great place to work, the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 is now open, and the Metro West is currently under construction.
According to the ABS Census figures from 2016, about 50,000 workers commute to Parramatta daily, with just under half (49%) travelling by car. The next most popular option was public transport (37%), while just 4% used active transport.
Despite car travel being the most common mode currently, the City of Parramatta supports a shift towards more sustainable options. The Integrated Transport Plan, developed as part of the Parramatta CBD Planning Proposal, states:
“The significant increase in trips to, from and within the CBD generated by the Parramatta CBD Planning Proposal cannot be accommodated by private vehicle trips as there is not enough room on streets and at intersections. More space-efficient modes are needed as density in the CBD increases.”
A Great place to work
Parramatta has a dynamic and diverse workforce with a pool of two million people within a 30-minute commute. With long-term infrastructure investment underway, transport development is the critical link supporting Parramatta's role as Sydney’s Central River City.
Over the next 20 years, it’s forecast that 420,000 more people will move into the corridor between Parramatta and Sydney, and 300,000 new jobs will be created in the region by 2036.
Public transport
Train
Parramatta Station is a major hub connecting to metro Sydney via the T1, T2, and T5 lines, as well as intercity services on the Blue Mountains and Central Coast/Newcastle lines. It’s just a 30-minute ride from Town Hall to Parramatta.
Nearby stations at Harris Park and Westmead provide even more convenience and accessibility.
Bus
Parramatta’s bus interchange sits right next to the train station and connects to key destinations such as:
- Castle Hill
- Hornsby
- Ryde
- Strathfield
- Sydney CBD
Ferry
The Parramatta RiverCat ferry service runs from Parramatta Wharf to Circular Quay, offering a scenic and relaxing journey along the river.
Plan your journey at Transport for NSW or call 131 500.
Future Transport Projects
Parramatta Light Rail – Stage 1 (Now Open)
The Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 is now fully operational, connecting Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia. The 12-kilometre track links major destinations including:
- Westmead Health & Education Precinct
- CommBank Stadium
- Parramatta Square
- Camellia Town Centre
- The new Powerhouse Museum
- Rosehill Gardens Racecourse
- Western Sydney University campuses
- Telopea’s residential redevelopment
This game-changing project offers fast, reliable travel through the city’s busiest and most strategic locations.
Parramatta Light Rail – Stage 2
Stage 2 will connect Parramatta to Ermington, Melrose Park, Wentworth Point, and Sydney Olympic Park. It will integrate with:
- Sydney Metro West (under construction)
- Heavy rail services at Parramatta and Olympic Park
- Ferry services at Rydalmere and Sydney Olympic Park
Sydney Metro West
Currently under construction, the Sydney Metro West will be a 24-kilometre underground metro linking Parramatta and the Sydney CBD. Planned stations include:
- Westmead
- Parramatta
- Sydney Olympic Park
- North Strathfield
- Burwood North
- Five Dock
- The Bays
- Pyrmont
- Hunter Street (CBD)
The new line aims to significantly reduce travel times and increase capacity between Sydney’s two key CBDs.
Active transport options
The City of Parramatta is prioritising walkability and cycling infrastructure to support healthier, more sustainable commuting.
Walking
The Parramatta Ways Walking Strategy and the CBD Pedestrian Strategy aim to make Parramatta safer and more pleasant for people on foot, with green connections between parks, rivers, and business precincts.
Cycling
The Parramatta Valley Cycleway is a scenic 20km shared path connecting Ryde to the Parramatta CBD, running through nature reserves and riverside parks.
The Parramatta Bike Plan includes more bike lanes and safe connections across the city. A free Parramatta Cycling Map is available from the Heritage and Visitor Information Centre or can be downloaded online.
Driving
Parramatta is well-serviced by major arterial roads such as the M4 Motorway, James Ruse Drive, and Victoria Road. There are a number of secure parking stations across the CBD.
Tip: Some parking stations offer discounts for pre-booking, especially during off-peak hours.
Parramatta continues to evolve into a more connected, accessible and vibrant city. With more commuting options opening up and better integration across transport modes, it’s easier than ever to make Parramatta your base for business, work, or play.
