Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct train service between Finley and Ballina.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 14 hours of pure driving time.

Yes, but you must drive to Albury first to catch a flight.

Yes, expect tolls if you pass through Sydney or certain coastal motorways.

The route changes from flat plains to coastal ranges, offering varied scenery.

Finley

Ballina

Flight Driving

Finley to Ballina

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Finley to Ballina spans approximately 1,200 kilometers across New South Wales. Most travelers prefer driving via the Newell Highway and Pacific Highway to reach the coast. Alternatively, you can drive to Albury and fly to Ballina via Sydney. The route takes you through diverse landscapes from the Riverina plains to the lush Northern Rivers. Expect a travel time of roughly 14 hours by road without stops. This route connects the agricultural heartland of the Murray region to the popular surf beaches of the North Coast.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance; 950 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Albury via Sydney is the fastest, taking 6 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective option for groups or families.

Compare Finley to Ballina Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	14 hours
Avg Price	$400-$700	$250-$350 fuel
Operator	Qantas/Rex	N/A
Route	Drive to Albury Airport, fly to Sydney, then connect to Ballina.	Newell Highway to Pacific Highway via Dubbo and Newcastle.
Tip	Book early to secure lower fares on the Sydney to Ballina leg.	Stop in Dubbo to break the long drive and visit the Western Plains Zoo.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Dubbo and Moree to avoid high prices in remote areas.
Road Conditions
Check Live Traffic NSW for roadworks or flooding alerts on the Newell Highway.
Accommodation
Book motels in advance if traveling during school holidays.
Rest Breaks
Follow the 'stop, revive, survive' rule by taking a 15-minute break every two hours.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile reception can be patchy in rural NSW.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk.
Fatigue
Share the driving duties if possible to maintain alertness.
Weather
Monitor weather reports for potential heavy rain on the coast.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and oil are checked before starting this long journey.