Australian workers are experiencing longer and more expensive commutes, according to the Real Australian Commute Report 2025, released by Real Insurance.
The nationwide survey of over 5,000 commuters reveals that the average daily commute has increased to 64 minutes, a rise of 10 minutes since 2022.
The distance travelled per day has also grown, with workers now covering 37 kilometres on average, compared to 32 kilometres three years ago.
The financial burden of commuting is also increasing. The report indicates that the average commuter now spends $19.10 per day on travel, and annual vehicle maintenance costs have reached $2,298, up from $2,015 in 2022.
Private vehicles remain the primary mode of transport, with 64% of respondents relying on cars.
However, train usage has seen a notable uptick, with 30% of commuters now using rail services, up from 21% in 2022.
Other forms of transport – such as buses, walking, rideshare, and trams – have remained relatively stable, while the use of non-electric bikes and scooters has declined from 8% to 6%.
The ongoing cost-of-living pressures are shaping how Australians commute. The report found that 71% of respondents feel that financial constraints are influencing their travel decisions, a figure unchanged from 2022. Nearly two-thirds (62%) continue to describe commuting as expensive.
To manage these costs, commuters are adopting new strategies. Some are seeking out lower fuel prices, while others are shifting towards public transport or avoiding toll roads, a trend that has become more pronounced in 2025.
There is also an increase in multi-modal journeys, with commuters combining different forms of transport such as cars, trains, buses, and walking to reduce expenses.
Navigation apps are being used more frequently to identify cost-effective and time-saving routes, while car-sharing services have seen a decline in use since 2022.
Dr. Páraic Carroll, lecturer in transport planning at the University of Melbourne, stated that in many outer suburban regions, residents have little alternative but to drive, as public transport options are limited or unavailable.
This means families are increasingly burdened by expenses such as fuel, tolls, and vehicle upkeep simply to access employment or education.
“What we’re seeing is not lifestyle choice but forced car ownership, a symptom of transport disadvantage that’s deepening under the current cost-of-living crisis,” Carroll said.
The report also highlights the daily challenges faced by commuters. Among public transport users, delays and cancellations are the most common complaints, cited by 66% of respondents.
Overcrowding is another significant issue, affecting 59%, while 52% are troubled by the behaviour or odours of fellow passengers.
Despite these issues, a large majority (90%) of public transport users try to keep themselves entertained during their journeys, and 71% attempt to use their travel time productively.
For those who drive, congestion remains the leading source of frustration, with 59% identifying it as their main concern. Inconsiderate and aggressive driving are also frequently mentioned.
Interestingly, nearly half of car commuters admit to forming opinions about other drivers based on the type or brand of vehicle they drive, suggesting that social perceptions play a role in the commuting experience.
For those residing on the outskirts, extended and demanding commutes go beyond being a simple inconvenience – they have a real impact on daily well-being, according to Carroll.
“Hours spent in congestion or unreliable public transport services translate into less time for family, exercise, and rest. The mental toll is often invisible, but it intensifies social isolation and fatigue, especially where commuting is the only link between affordable housing and employment,” Carroll said.
The willingness of Australians to tolerate longer commutes appears to be increasing. Respondents now report they would consider up to 91 minutes of daily travel before re-evaluating their job or residence, up from 62 minutes in 2022.
Flexibility in work arrangements remains important, with 64% of hybrid workers indicating they would consider changing jobs if required to return to the office full-time.
The cost of commuting is also a major factor in housing decisions, with 65% stating it influences where they choose to live, and 58% saying it has already determined their location.
“Hybrid and flexible work are now lifelines for outer-urban workers. Without them, many simply couldn’t sustain the time and cost of daily travel. Giving people flexibility isn’t just about productivity; it’s about equity. It helps level the playing field for those who can’t afford to live close to the city but still need access to urban jobs and services,” Carroll said.
Interest in electric and hybrid vehicles is growing, with 48% of respondents either owning or considering such vehicles. Lower running costs are the main attraction for nearly three-quarters of those interested.
However, barriers remain, with affordability and access to charging infrastructure cited as the main obstacles by 39% and 36% of respondents, respectively.
Environmental concerns are also present, with 35% expressing scepticism about the benefits of electric vehicles.
Attitudes towards e-bikes and scooters are mixed, with 43% viewing them positively and 32% holding negative views.
Infrastructure remains a concern for many, as 48% of respondents feel that recent transport upgrades have not improved their commute.
When asked about government investment priorities, better roads, expanded public transport, lower fares, and reduced tolls were the most frequently mentioned needs.
To achieve more equitable, sustainable, and integrated commuting options, it is essential to address the shortcomings in outer areas where public transport is limited, train lines do not extend, and active travel like walking or cycling is not practical or safe, according to Carroll.
“Investment in frequent, reliable and accessible public transport, shared transport (i.e., micromobility), and better first-mile links would transform how outer-suburban and regional communities connect to opportunity,” Carroll said.
