Getting to RMIT University: Transport Guide (2026)

Getting to RMIT University in Melbourne Cbd does not have to be complicated. With around 50,000 students commuting to campus each semester, the public transport connections are well-established and frequently serviced. Whether you are coming from the CBD, the outer suburbs, or interstate, this guide covers every practical option for reaching RMIT.

RMIT University is located at 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Tram routes 19, 57, 59 service the area around RMIT University. The nearest train station is Melbourne Central Station.

By Train

The most common way students reach RMIT is by train. Melbourne Central Station is the closest stop, and during semester the morning peak services run frequently enough that you rarely need to check a timetable.

From the CBD, trains to Melbourne Central Station run every 5 to 15 minutes during peak hours and every 15 to 20 minutes off-peak. The journey from Flinders Street Station takes approximately 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting line and time of day.

If you are travelling from the western suburbs, a change at Flinders Street or Southern Cross is usually required. From the eastern suburbs, most lines connect through Richmond or the City Loop. Plan your journey on the PTV app or website – it accounts for real-time delays and platform changes.

Myki fares: A 2-hour fare in zones 1-2 costs $5.30 (full fare) or $2.65 (concession). The daily cap is $10.60 full / $5.30 concession. If you are a full-time student, apply for a concession Myki through your university – it halves your transport costs.

By Tram

Tram routes 19, 57, 59 run through or near the RMIT campus area. Trams are often the most convenient option if you live in the inner suburbs or are connecting from another tram line.

The free tram zone covers most of the CBD, which means if you are starting from within the zone you can ride without touching on. However, once you leave the free zone (which happens quickly heading north towards Parkville), standard Myki fares apply.

Tram frequency varies by route, but during weekday peak hours most routes run every 5 to 10 minutes. Off-peak and weekend services drop to every 10 to 20 minutes. The PTV app shows real-time tram locations.

Tram stops near RMIT are well-signed and most have shelters. From the closest tram stop, expect a 2 to 5 minute walk to reach the main campus entrance.

By Bicycle

Melbourne’s cycling network reaches Melbourne Cbd, and cycling to RMIT is a practical option for students living within 5 to 10 kilometres. The campus has bicycle parking facilities including covered racks and, at many buildings, secure bike cages.

Key cycling routes near RMIT:

• Dedicated bike lanes on major roads leading to campus
• Shared paths along nearby creek or river trails
• Melbourne’s bike share scheme (if available in your area) for occasional use

During winter, cycling drops off but dedicated riders commute year-round. Invest in a good lock – bike theft on and around campuses is a reality. Register your bike with campus security if the option is available.

By Car

Driving to RMIT is possible but not always practical. Parking on campus is limited and often requires a permit ($500 to $1,200 per year depending on the university and zone). Street parking near Melbourne VIC 3000 is metered during business hours and time-limited.

If you must drive, consider parking at a nearby station with free commuter parking and taking the train for the last leg. This saves on parking fees and avoids the morning scramble for spots.

Peak hour traffic in the Melbourne Cbd area adds 15 to 30 minutes to most driving routes. If your lectures start at 9am, leave early or shift to off-peak times where possible.

Walking Distance From Station

From Melbourne Central Station, the walk to RMIT’s main entrance takes approximately 5 to 15 minutes depending on which campus building you need. The route is well-signed with university wayfinding markers.

Suggested route: Exit Melbourne Central Station, follow the main road towards campus. Most students quickly learn the shortcut through the campus grounds that saves 3 to 5 minutes on the walk from the station.

During orientation week, student volunteers are stationed along the route to help new students find their way.

Transport Tips for RMIT Students

1. Get your concession Myki sorted early. Apply through the university portal before semester starts. The savings add up fast.
2. Use the PTV app. Real-time tracking saves you standing at a cold tram stop wondering when the next one arrives.
3. Off-peak is your friend. If your timetable allows it, travelling outside 7-9am and 4-6pm means emptier trains and cheaper fares.
4. Semester parking permits sell out. If you need to drive, apply for a campus parking permit as soon as allocations open.
5. Consider a bicycle. For students living within a few kilometres, cycling is the fastest and cheapest option. RMIT has dedicated bike parking facilities.

Myki Quick Reference

Concession fares require a valid concession Myki. Full-time domestic students can apply through their university. International students pay full fare unless their university has a specific arrangement with PTV.

Data sourced from university websites, PTV, ABS Census 2021. Compiled April 2026. Timetables and fares subject to change – always check the PTV website or app for current information.