The October 2026 change does not move every pickup
Melbourne Airport says the new T123 Transport Hub opened on 6 October 2026. For private-car pickups at Terminals 1–3, the public pickup area is Level 2; drop-offs use Level 3. Taxi and rideshare pickups remain at the ground-level forecourt, and SkyBus stays in the forecourt. Taxi and rideshare drop-offs at T123 use the new Level 3 area. See the airport’s current change FAQs.
If someone is collecting you, agree whether you mean a friend’s car, a taxi, an app ride or a booked chauffeur. “Meet at the new hub” is not a complete instruction. For a chauffeur, obtain that provider’s meeting point rather than guessing which public or app zone applies.
SkyBus: compare the party price
The Melbourne City Express fare page lists A$25.90 for an adult one-way ticket and A$43.40 return. A child aged 4–16 pays A$6.60 one way or A$11 return. All amounts below are Australian dollars and use these published fares, without discounts.
| Party | One-way bus tickets | What remains to price |
|---|---|---|
| One adult | A$25.90 | The journey from Southern Cross to your address |
| Four adults | A$103.60 | The final connection for all four |
| Two adults and two children aged 4–16 | A$65.00 | The final connection and its ticket conditions |
These totals are our arithmetic, not evidence that a car will cost less. Put the complete car quote beside the complete bus journey. A Southern Cross hotel may make the coach straightforward; an address needing another ride changes the calculation.
SkyBus’s ticket page advertises operation from 4 am to 1 am, seven days a week, and directs passengers to its timetable. Check the airport-to-city direction and your boarding stop. A flight landing near the end of service is not the same as reaching the bus in time: allow for immigration, baggage and the walk out.
Taxi or booked transfer: compare the complete price
Do not assume one type of car service is always cheaper. Obtain the price for your actual destination and vehicle. Ask how tolls, airport access, waiting and any luggage or vehicle requirements affect the total; do not add an access fee twice if it is already included.
Confirm your arrival terminal and the meeting instructions for the service you book. Melbourne Airport publishes current pickup arrangements, but a taxi rank is not automatically the meeting point for a prebooked driver. Follow the agreed instructions rather than another passenger’s screenshot.
Before boarding a booked vehicle, match the registration and driver details with your confirmation. Make sure the passenger count and actual luggage fit; a four-seat label does not describe the boot space.
When booking ahead is worth considering
A prearranged car may be useful for a late arrival, a family carrying several bags or a destination beyond the city centre. Compare it with the bus and on-demand options rather than assuming a reservation makes it cheaper or removes all waiting.
- Give the flight number and arrival terminal.
- List bags and any child-seat or accessibility needs before accepting an offer.
- Confirm the meeting point, included waiting time and flight-delay terms.
- Keep a working contact method for the driver after landing.
GetTransfer Editorial · Company-authored guide. Sources checked on 6 October 2026. Prices and pickup arrangements can change; check the linked operators before travelling.
