
Perth and Melbourne are two of the most populous cities in Australia. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is located on the Swan Coastal Plain, between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Scarp. Melbourne, the coastal capital of Victoria, is known for its art, culture, and food scene. The distance between these two cities is approximately 1,691.07 miles (2,721.51 km) by air and 2,066 miles by road. The flight time between the two cities is approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes, while the train journey takes around 2 days and 5 hours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance | 2,323.67 km |
| Flight time | 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours |
| Drive time | 31 hours non-stop |
| Train time | 65 hours |
| Closest capital cities in Australia | NA |
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Travel by plane
The distance between Melbourne and Perth, two major cities on opposite coasts of Australia, is considerable, and travelling between them is quite the journey. When planning travel between these two cities, flying is often the most efficient and sometimes the most cost-effective option. Here is some information to consider when planning to travel by plane between Melbourne and Perth.
The flight route between Melbourne and Perth is well-traversed and regularly serviced by several Australian airlines, including Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar. These carriers offer multiple daily flights, with some indirect services via other Australian cities, such as Adelaide or Sydney. It is beneficial to check the schedules of these airlines to find a flight that suits your preferred timing and any layover requirements.
The direct flight time for this journey averages around 4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 2,700 kilometres (1,700 miles). While this is a significant distance, it is a relatively short flight time compared to other international flights. This direct route is a good option to consider, especially if you want to minimise travel time and avoid the complexities of connecting flights.
When booking your flight, it is worth considering the time of day that suits your travel plans and preferences. Morning flights can be a great option to maximise your time in Perth, allowing you to arrive during the day and settle in before the evening. Alternatively, evening flights can provide a more relaxed travel experience, giving you the daytime to finalise any last-minute arrangements and pack at a leisurely pace.
As with any air travel, it is essential to be mindful of potential delays or cancellations due to weather conditions or operational factors. It is always a good idea to allow some flexibility in your itinerary and, if possible, book flights with airlines that offer good reputations for reliability and customer service. Additionally, keep yourself updated with the latest travel advisories and guidelines, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
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Travel by train
The distance between Melbourne and Perth, two major cities on opposite coasts of Australia, is considerable, and travelling by train is one of the ways to cover this distance. The Indian Pacific, one of the world's great rail journeys, connects these two cities, offering a unique and iconic travel experience. Here is some information about travelling by train between Melbourne and Perth:
The Indian Pacific is a transcontinental train service operated by Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions. The journey covers a distance of approximately 2,700 miles (4,352 kilometres), crossing the vast Australian outback, offering a unique and comfortable way to travel between these two distant cities. The trip usually takes around three days and two nights, providing travellers with a slow-paced and scenic journey through some of Australia's most remote and beautiful landscapes.
The train departs from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station, located in the heart of the city. From there, it traverses the wide-open plains of Victoria and enters New South Wales. Passengers get to enjoy the changing landscapes as the train passes through rural towns and the vast agricultural regions of the country. Along the way, there are stops at interesting locations, such as the historic town of Broken Hill, offering a glimpse into the outback lifestyle.
As the train continues its westward journey, it enters South Australia, where the landscape gradually transforms into the barren beauty of the outback. Passengers are treated to stunning sunsets and, if they're lucky, might even spot some of the unique wildlife that calls this harsh environment home, including kangaroos, emus, and wedge-tailed eagles. The train then reaches the remote outpost of Cook, the halfway point between Perth and Sydney, before heading further west.
On the final stretch towards Perth, the train passes through the majestic Nullarbor Plain, known for its vast, treeless landscape and dramatic cliffs along the southern coast. Here, travellers can marvel at the vast expanse of nothingness, interrupted only by the occasional roadhouse or isolated settlement. Finally, the train enters Western Australia, passing through picturesque rural areas before arriving at East Perth Terminal, located conveniently close to the city centre.
Travelling by train between Melbourne and Perth offers a unique opportunity to relax and unwind while taking in the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of Australia. It provides a comfortable and civilized way to experience the vast distances and rugged beauty of this great southern land. Along the journey, passengers are treated to delicious cuisine, fine wines, and the chance to socialize with fellow travellers from all over the world. It is truly a memorable and iconic travel experience.
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Travel by car
The distance between Melbourne and Perth, two popular cities in Australia, is a significant one, and this journey is often considered a true Australian road trip. The distance by road is just over 3,500 kilometres (2,174 miles), and the drive typically takes around 4 to 5 days of continuous driving, depending on your speed and route. This cross-country trip is an iconic adventure and a great way to see a large portion of the Australian landscape.
Planning Your Route
It is important to plan your route carefully, as there are a few different options for this journey. The most direct route is via the Eyre Highway, which takes you through South Australia. This route offers a fairly straight path across the country, and you'll pass through towns such as Norseman, Ceduna, and Port Augusta. An alternative route is to take the more scenic coastal road, which adds a significant amount of distance but offers stunning views. This route takes you along the Great Ocean Road, through Adelaide, and then up through the Nullarbor Plain. This journey is more winding and will likely take an extra day or two, but it is a great option for those wanting to take their time and see more of the coastline.
Preparing Your Vehicle
Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition is crucial for this trip. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment, such as a spare tyre, jack, and basic tools, and that your car has been recently serviced. Carrying extra supplies, such as fuel, oil, and water, is also recommended, as there are long stretches of road without services. It is also a good idea to join a motoring association, which can provide roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown.
On the Road
When driving such a long distance, it is important to be mindful of driver fatigue. Plan to share the driving with at least one other person, and take regular breaks. There are plenty of rest stops along the way, as well as small towns and roadhouses offering accommodation and food. Keep yourself entertained with music, audiobooks, or podcasts, and make sure to stop and enjoy the scenery and take photos.
What to See and Do
Along this route, you'll find a range of unique Australian attractions. The Great Australian Bight offers stunning coastal views, and you can spot whales during their migration season. The Nullarbor Plain is a vast, treeless landscape with an abundance of wildlife, including kangaroos and emus. You can also visit the famous kangaroo orphanage in Ballarat, or take a detour to the Grampians National Park to see the impressive waterfalls and rock formations.
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Time difference
Melbourne, Victoria, and Perth, Western Australia, observe different time zones. Melbourne is 2 hours ahead of Perth. For example, when it is 9:00 am in Perth, it is 11:00 am in Melbourne.
If you are in Perth and want to schedule a conference call or meeting to suit everyone's working hours, the best time to do so would be between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm your time. This will be between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm in Melbourne.
If you are in Melbourne and want to schedule a call or meeting, try between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm your time. This will be between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm in Perth.
If you are in Perth and want to call a friend in Melbourne at any time, you can reach them between 5:00 am and 9:00 pm your time. This will be 7:00 am to 11:00 pm in Melbourne.
If you are in Melbourne and want to call a friend in Perth at any time, you can reach them between 7:00 am and 1:00 am your time. This will be between 5:00 am and 9:00 pm in Perth.
To put it simply, Perth is 2 hours behind Melbourne.
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Flight direction
The flight direction from Melbourne to Perth, Australia, is west, or -85 degrees from north. The initial bearing on the course from Melbourne to Perth is 283.80 degrees, and the compass direction is WNW (west-northwest). The flight distance between the nearest airports, Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Perth Airport (PER), is 1,686.99 miles or 2,714.95 kilometres. This corresponds to a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes.
The flight direction from Perth to Melbourne is east, or 103.80 degrees. The initial bearing on the course from Perth to Melbourne is 103.80 degrees, and the compass direction is ESE (east-southeast). The flight distance between Perth (PER) and Melbourne (MEL) is 1,688.85 miles or 2,717.95 kilometres. This flight path also corresponds to a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes.
The total flight duration from Melbourne to Perth is 3 hours and 53 minutes. This includes an average flight speed for a commercial airliner of 500 mph, and an extra 30 minutes for take-off and landing. The exact time may vary depending on wind speeds, airport wait times, and equipment or weather delays.
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Frequently asked questions
The distance between Melbourne and Perth, Australia is 1,691.07 miles or 2,721.51 kilometres.
It takes approximately 35 hours and 5 minutes to complete the 2,066-mile road trip from Melbourne to Perth.
The cheapest way to get from Melbourne to Perth is to fly, with tickets costing between $150 and $430.
Perth is 2 hours behind Melbourne.

























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