Is there a train from Gold Coast to Perth?

No direct train exists; you would need to travel to Sydney to catch the Indian Pacific.

How long does it take to drive to Perth?

It typically takes 5 to 7 days of steady driving to complete the journey safely.

Are there direct flights from Gold Coast to Perth?

Direct flights are rare; most routes require a stopover in Sydney or Melbourne.

What is the best road to take?

The Eyre Highway (A1) is the primary and most reliable route across the Nullarbor.

Do I need a permit to drive across states?

No, but check current agricultural quarantine restrictions for entering Western Australia.

Burleigh Heads

Perth

Flight Driving

Burleigh Heads to Perth

Updated: 29 May 2026

Traveling from Burleigh Heads to Perth covers approximately 4,300 km across the Australian continent. The most efficient method is a flight from Gold Coast Airport to Perth Airport, typically involving a connection in Sydney or Melbourne. For those driving, the route follows the Pacific Highway to the M7, then the A20 and A1 across the Nullarbor Plain. This journey traverses diverse landscapes from coastal Queensland to the arid expanse of the Great Australian Bight. Expect a multi-day drive if choosing the road route, requiring careful planning for fuel and supplies.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,300 km, straight-line air distance 3,600 km.

Fastest Way

Flight, taking approximately 7.5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Flight, usually starting from $350 AUD when booked well in advance.

Compare Burleigh Heads to Perth Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 30 mins	48 hours driving time
Avg Price	$350 - $700 AUD	$800 - $1,200 AUD (fuel)
Operator	Qantas or Virgin Australia	Personal Vehicle
Route	OOL to PER via SYD or MEL	M1, A20, A1 (Eyre Highway)
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Carry at least 20 liters of spare water and check fuel stops on the Nullarbor.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfer
Use the Transperth bus route 380 for a budget-friendly transfer from Perth Airport to the CBD.
Time Zone
Remember that Western Australia is two to three hours behind Queensland depending on daylight savings.
Fuel Stops
On the Nullarbor, fuel stations can be 200 km apart; always fill up when you see a station.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is limited in remote areas; download offline maps before leaving major towns.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle is serviced before attempting the cross-country drive.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn, dusk, or night to minimize the risk of hitting kangaroos or camels.
Fatigue
Stop every two hours for a 15-minute break to combat driver fatigue on long stretches.
Water Supply
Always carry extra drinking water in case of vehicle breakdown in remote regions.
Emergency Beacon
Consider carrying a satellite phone or PLB if traveling solo through the Nullarbor.