Palmerston
Palmerston
Ballarat
Ballarat
Train Flight

Palmerston to Ballarat

Updated: 26 May 2026

To reach Ballarat from Palmerston, you must fly from Darwin International Airport to Melbourne. Upon arrival at Tullamarine, take the SkyBus to Southern Cross Station. From Southern Cross, board a V/Line train heading to Ballarat Station. This route connects the tropical north to the historic goldfields region of Victoria.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,900 km, straight-line air distance 3,100 km.
Fastest Way
Flight to Melbourne followed by a taxi or train to Ballarat.
Cheapest Way
Flight to Melbourne and V/Line train to Ballarat.
Compare Palmerston to Ballarat Routes
Train
Direct
Flight
Connecting
Duration 1 hour 30 mins 7 hours
Avg Price $25-$35 $450-$950
Operator V/Line Qantas
Route Southern Cross Station to Ballarat Station. Darwin to Melbourne Airport.
Tip Trains run frequently throughout the day. Check flight schedules early as Darwin has limited direct flights to Melbourne.
Travel Tips
  • Train Booking
    Use the V/Line website to check live departure times.
  • Clothing
    Ballarat is cold in winter; bring a heavy coat.
  • Transport
    Use local buses to get around Ballarat city.
  • Connectivity
    Download offline maps for the train journey.
  • Arrival
    Arrive at Southern Cross 30 minutes before your train.
Safety Tips
  • Weather
    Be prepared for rapid weather changes in Victoria.
  • Valuables
    Keep your passport and tickets in a secure bag.
  • Assistance
    Station staff are available for travel advice.
  • Health
    Carry basic medication for the long travel day.
People Also Ask
  • Is Ballarat cold?
    Yes, it is one of the coldest cities in Victoria.
  • How far is Melbourne?
    Ballarat is about 110 km from Melbourne.
  • Can I fly to Ballarat?
    No, there is no commercial airport in Ballarat.
  • Is the train reliable?
    Yes, V/Line is the standard for regional travel.
  • What is the best season?
    Spring is ideal for visiting the gardens.
Quick Info
  • From Palmerston, Northern Territory, Australia
  • To Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn or Spring for mild weather in the Victorian goldfields.

Things to Do in Ballarat
1
Sovereign Hill
Experience an open-air museum depicting the gold rush era. Pan for gold in the creek.
2
Ballarat Wildlife Park
See kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles. It is a family-friendly attraction.
3
Lake Wendouree
Walk the perimeter of this historic lake. Enjoy the botanical gardens nearby.
4
Art Gallery of Ballarat
Visit the oldest regional gallery in Australia. View extensive colonial art collections.
Tags
Palmerston to Ballarat travel Darwin to Ballarat flights V/Line train to Ballarat traveling to Ballarat from NT Melbourne to Ballarat transport Australia travel guide Ballarat tourism Northern Territory to Victoria