Is there a train to Dubbo?

Yes, the XPT train runs from Sydney, but there is no direct train from Brisbane.

How long is the flight?

The flight is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

What is the best route to drive?

The Newell Highway is the most direct route from the Queensland border.

Are there rental cars at Dubbo Airport?

Yes, major rental agencies have desks at the airport terminal.

Is Dubbo a good family destination?

Yes, the zoo and historical sites make it a top choice for families.

Brisbane

Dubbo

Flight Driving

Brisbane to Dubbo

Updated: 30 May 2026

Dubbo is a major regional hub in central-western New South Wales, located about 950 kilometers from Brisbane. You can fly directly from Brisbane Airport to Dubbo City Regional Airport in under 2 hours. Alternatively, driving via the Newell Highway takes approximately 11 to 12 hours. Dubbo is famous for the Taronga Western Plains Zoo and its rich agricultural history. Choosing between air and road depends on your time constraints and desire for a scenic inland drive.

Total Distance: 950 km driving distance; 750 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is significantly faster, taking less than 2 hours compared to a full day of driving.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper if traveling with more than one person.

Compare Brisbane to Dubbo Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 45 mins	11 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	250-450 AUD	180-250 AUD in fuel
Operator	QantasLink	Personal Vehicle
Route	Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Dubbo City Regional Airport (DBO).	New England Highway to Newell Highway via Goondiwindi.
Tip	Book early to secure lower fares on regional flight routes.	Be prepared for long stretches of road with limited services.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfers
Taxis and rental cars are available at Dubbo Airport for easy city access.
Highway Driving
The Newell Highway is a major freight route; expect many heavy vehicles.
Accommodation
Dubbo has a wide range of motels and caravan parks suitable for road trippers.
Booking Flights
Use flight comparison websites to track price fluctuations for the Brisbane-Dubbo route.
Packing
Pack layers as inland temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Kangaroos are active at dawn and dusk; avoid driving during these times on rural roads.
Fatigue
The drive is long; plan overnight stops in towns like Goondiwindi or Moree.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your car is serviced before embarking on a long inland road trip.
Connectivity
Mobile reception can be spotty in remote areas; download offline maps.