One million and counting for Footy Express

Friday 4 September 2026

Adelaide Metro data shows 1,046,500 boardings were recorded on free train, tram and bus services this season.

From Gawler and Golden Grove to Noarlunga, Glenelg and West Lakes, Footy Express services carry an average of 23,500 footy fans every week.

The service also proved popular during Gather Round in April, with Adelaide Metro carrying around 48 per cent of spectators attending matches at Adelaide Oval and 65 per cent of the crowd attending Barossa Park.

Patronage has increased every year since 2022, more than tripling over the period and demonstrating strong and sustained demand for the service.

More than four million boardings have been recorded on Footy Express services over the past four years, cementing its place as a trusted game-day tradition for South Australians.

With hundreds of thousands of fans choosing public transport to get to the footy each year, the State Government will expand Footy Express to Murray Bridge from next season, making it easier for supporters from the Murraylands to travel to and from Adelaide Oval.

The new service will connect one of the state's fastest-growing regional centres with Adelaide Oval on match days.

Each season, Adelaide Metro puts on about 300 extra bus, train and tram services for every Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide home game, as well as every match during Gather Round.

More than just a transport option, Footy Express gives fans a convenient and affordable way to get to the footy while avoiding the hassle of driving and parking.

In 2025, almost 1.5 million free trips were taken across 61 major ticketed music and sporting events, including the Ashes Test, the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant, the SANFL Grand Final, City-Bay and LIV Golf.

The State Government also introduced free travel for Seniors Card holders in July 2022, giving more than 430,000 South Australians more choice and independence while collectively saving more than $44 million in fares.