For the first time, all NSW regional bus passengers can access real-time bus travel information from their smart devices – the same smart technology Sydney commuters have enjoyed for years.

All 3010 contracted buses across rural and regional NSW, which collectively cover more than 3880 routes and around 316,000 kilometres per day, are now fitted out with GPS and automatic passenger-counting technology.

The upgrades give rural and regional communities more reliable trips, with passengers now able to track their bus in real-time using any travel app, including Opal Travel or via Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner website, get accurate arrival times and capacity information, access interactive maps, digital timetables, and route information, and plan smoother journeys through Transport for NSW's (TfNSW) Trip Planner.

The smart technology system brings rural and regional NSW in line with Greater Sydney and Outer Metropolitan areas.

It means the state’s entire fleet of contracted buses, both on regular and school services, can now be tracked by their passengers.

As well as benefiting passengers, this data gives TfNSW and bus operators the tools to improve operations management to help keep services running on time. The technology was also used by bus operators on the NSW North Coast to cancel trips promptly and consistently during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

The Transport Connected Bus program was the result of collaboration with 451 contracted bus operators, ranging from large fleet companies to small mum-and-dad businesses, with the fit-outs completed ahead of schedule.

Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said as someone who represents a regional community (Maitland), she understands how frustrating it is for regional commuters and public transport users who feel left behind when it comes to accessing real-time data.

"No matter where you live in NSW, you deserve the same quality public transport experience," she said.

"With more than 40 million regional bus journeys every year, every passenger deserves a smooth, reliable trip. These upgrades eliminate the guesswork. Now you'll know exactly where your bus is and when it will arrive."