Is there a direct flight to Broken Hill?

Regional Express (Rex) operates direct flights from Sydney Airport to Broken Hill.

Can I take a bus to Broken Hill?

NSW TrainLink operates coach services connecting to the train network at various regional hubs.

Is the Barrier Highway sealed?

Yes, the entire route from Sydney to Broken Hill is fully sealed and suitable for standard vehicles.

What is the best time to visit?

The cooler months between April and September are ideal for outdoor exploration.

Are there rental car options?

Rental cars are available in Sydney, but ensure your contract allows for outback travel.

Broken Hill

Train Driving

Kingswood to Broken Hill

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Kingswood to Broken Hill spans approximately 1150 kilometers across the vast New South Wales outback. You can travel via the Great Western Highway, which transitions into the Barrier Highway, or take the iconic Indian Pacific train. Driving typically takes 13 to 14 hours, while the train journey is a multi-day experience. The route passes through historic towns like Orange and Cobar before reaching the silver city. This trip offers a dramatic transition from the Sydney basin to the arid, mineral-rich landscapes of the far west.

Total Distance: 1150 km driving distance; 950 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 13.5 hours compared to the overnight train.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective option for groups or families, costing roughly 300 AUD in fuel.

Compare Kingswood to Broken Hill Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	26 hours	13 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	400-1200 AUD	250-350 AUD in fuel
Operator	Journey Beyond Rail	N/A
Route	Indian Pacific line from Sydney Central Station to Broken Hill Station.	A32 Great Western Highway to A32 Barrier Highway via Dubbo and Cobar.
Tip	Book well in advance as this is a premium transcontinental service with limited capacity.	Ensure you carry at least 10 liters of emergency water and check fuel levels between major towns.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Refuel at every major town like Nyngan and Cobar to avoid running dry in remote stretches.
Wildlife Awareness
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize the risk of collisions with kangaroos and emus.
Connectivity
Mobile reception is patchy outside of towns; download offline maps before departing Kingswood.
Clothing
Pack layers, as outback temperatures can drop significantly at night even in warmer months.
Vehicle Check
Perform a full mechanical inspection, specifically checking tires and cooling systems, before leaving.

Safety Tips

Emergency Supplies
Carry a satellite phone or PLB if traveling solo on remote sections of the Barrier Highway.
Fatigue Management
Stop every two hours for a break to combat driver fatigue on long, monotonous stretches of road.
Road Conditions
Check Live Traffic NSW for road closures due to flooding or maintenance before starting your journey.
Sun Protection
Wear high-SPF sunscreen and a hat, as the outback sun is significantly stronger than in Sydney.