The transport system in Melbourne is divided into 3 zones with the CBD and central region as zone 1, and the outskirts as zone 3.  

For a 2-hour ticket, the ticket expires in about 2 - 3 hours from the time of validation. However, within this period, you can have unlimited rides on the trains, trams and buses in the specified zone. Also, after 1800hrs, the 2-hour ticket will be valid till 0200hrs the following day. For those traveling from Zone 1 to Monash University, you can purchase a Zone 1 ticket, stop at Huntingdale Station and board bus no. 630. And vice versa, if traveling from Monash to the city.

It would be ideal if you can lay your hands on a concession pass as your travel fees would be halved. Unfortunately, it is only available to full time students and senior citizens only (at a cost of AU$45). The next best possible alternative is to plan your activities such that there will be minimum traveling required. Do not attempt to go onboard without paying although it is tempting to sometimes. The penalty is a hefty AU$500!   

Under all circumstances, it is advisable to avoid the cabs like the plague; unless, of course, if you are filthy rich and have no better idea how to dispose of your wealth. Definitely not recommended except in emergencies.

• Trains

The train system is very efficient and user-friendly. There are basically 2 rails for every line to the city and back. Therefore, at Flinder's Street Station (the main interchange), there are about 10 platforms connecting all the lines. Amid the chaos, it is possible to know which train to board, as there are monitors that provide necessary details for the line (like the information board at airports). The last train to depart from the city is at midnight, while those from the suburbs to the city depart at 2330 hours. 

Doors of the trains have to be opened manually and will close after a beep is sounded. However, the doors will not crush you if you happen to be caught between them. During weekends, the frequency of the trains would be shortened, arriving once every ½ hour or so. Also, at some interchange stations; the services might be consolidated onto a different platform from that on weekdays. So be sure to check before boarding.  

Details on the rail provider can be found at http://www.connexmelbourne.com.au/ (Connex Melbourne). 

• Trams 

The tram network is mostly found in the city area only, covering the main roads. The trams operate very much like the trains and information on the route and schedule of the trams are available on all the stops. More information on trams can be found at http://www.doi.vic.gov.au/DOI/Internet/transport.nsf (under Melbourne's trams).

• Buses 

Buses cater mostly to the suburban and rural areas. They connect town centers and major shopping districts in zones 2 and 3. For more information on the timetables and routes, go to http://www.venturabus.com.au/

Information on the routes of the public transport can be found in the Melway Street Directory (AU$45.00). Another smaller directory will be the Melbourne Compact Street Directory (AU$21.00). Both of them list all train stations but the Melway provides greater detail on the neighborhood as compared to the Melbourne Compact. An online map can be found at http://melbourne.citysearch.com.au/  

Sydney   

            The transport system is different from Melbourne's and it is overall more efficient.  

• Trains  

The fare is calculated by stops instead of zones. Doors are automatic - I made the mistake of trying to force one open, to the amusement of the other passengers - and the trains are all double decked. The seats on the upper deck can be switched to face either way.

Routes are color-coded and there are approximately 10 routes to travel on. Due to the great number of routes, the Central Station - hub of the rail, train, bus and taxi - occupies a very large land area and has 25 platforms for the trains! However, it is still relatively easy to navigate with the help of the T.V. monitors and the helpful staff.

In order to save money on transportation, do try to plan your route in advance and minimize the use of the transport system. Personally, I feel that walking provides a greater opportunity for exploration.

·        Ferry & Cruises

Various ferry services are available at Circular Quay that link Sydney Cove to the other bays and harbors in the vicinity. Sometimes, the day tripper (ferry, bus, train day pass) is only a few dollars more than a return trip ferry ticket. So you might want to purchase that instead if you are planning lots of traveling in the day.

Sydney Harbor cruises are also available and information is freely available at most tourist information centers. They offer trips of varying luxury and prices ranging from AU$15 - AU$99.

       ·        Metro light rail

This is a 24-hour transport system from the city to Lilyfield. Tickets range from AU$2.60 - AU$5. However, if you are planning to travel on it for the whole day, the day pass costs AU$8 and it just might be worth the while to buy that. Tickets are purchased onboard the tram from the conductor. More information can be obtained from http://www.metrolightrail.com.au.  

• Metro monorail

This rail service is only available in the city and it loops Darling Harbor and the center of the CBD area. Fares are AU$4 for a loop trip and AU$8 for a day pass. More information can be obtained from http://www.metromonorail.com.au.