A direct bus between Balmain East Wharf and Leichhardt via Rozelle will be reintroduced, delivering on an election commitment, while helping locals get from A to B by improving connectivity and creating easier access to ferries.
As part of timetable improvements to Inner West bus services, Transport for NSW will introduce the new 444 route, with the service kicking off on Monday 16 November 2026.
The new 444 route delivers on the NSW Government’s commitment to investigate options to bring back the former 445 connection to Balmain East Wharf. The reintroduction of a service along that route fulfils a long-standing community push to restore the link.
This new route will provide a direct link between Balmain East Wharf and Leichhardt Marketplace via Darling Street and makes it easier for residents to access local shops, services, community facilities and ferry connections.
Operating approximately every 60 minutes between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday, the service will add 54 trips each week and help residents link up with Sydney Ferries services at Balmain East Wharf.
During the 444’s operating hours, passengers travelling along key sections of the corridor will have access to a Route 444 bus approximately every 60 minutes, with Routes 442 and 445 continuing to provide services every 15 and 10 minutes respectively.
Easier connections with Balmain East Wharf will help residents catch ferries to Circular Quay, Pyrmont Bay and Barangaroo.
Transport for NSW will review patronage and community feedback after the new route is introduced and make further timetable adjustments if required.
Key changes from Monday 16 November 2026:
- New route 444 between Leichhardt Marketplace and Balmain East Wharf
- Services every 60 minutes between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday
- 54 additional bus trips per week
- Improved connections to Balmain East Wharf
Minister for Transport, John Graham said:
“This is a great example of community consultation delivering a real outcome for local residents. People told us they wanted a direct bus between Balmain and Leichhardt, and now they’re getting one.
“The Inner West is a tight-knit community, and delivering on the public transport services which communities asked for means residents feel heard and stay connected with one another.
“Good public transport is about making it easier for people to get where they need to go, whether that’s work, school, local shops or to link up with other modes of transport like our ferries. This new route gives people more choices and helps them move around our amazing city.”
Philippa Scott, Labor candidate for Balmain said:
“Getting around our suburbs, as well as into the city, is important and this is a real win for the Balmain East and Leichhardt communities.
“For many residents, particularly older people and those who rely on public transport, having a direct connection between these communities will make everyday travel much easier.
“The community strongly supported restoring the former connection to Balmain East Wharf, and it’s fantastic to see that advocacy translated into a new service that will benefit residents and visitors.
“The new route 444 will provide a direct public transport link between two important Inner West destinations while improving access to the wider transport network through connections with ferry services at Balmain East Wharf.”
