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Must-have Apps for Brisbane Living

Whether you’re just exploring Brisbane on holiday or just moved to the area, downloading the right apps can help you get the most out of your time here. Luckily, there are countless Queensland apps to help you explore the area. From transportation and hiking to food and entertainment–there’s something for everyone.  

We’ve rounded up the top picks for the best apps to make your stay in Brisbane memorable and enjoyable. 

This article includes Queensland apps for the following: 

  • Transportation 
  • Entertainment 
  • Nature
  • Kids
  • Housing
  • Emergency Preparedness

holding phone app guide

Transportation

Few things are more exciting than exploring a new city. Check out the best apps to help you get around Brisbane and see the sights. 

  • Brisbane Map and Walks

Brisbane is a great city to explore on foot! In fact, it’s famous for its scenic walkways. If you’re someone who enjoys active commuting, this app is for you. Brisbane Map and Walks comes with built-in walking routes and powerful navigation capabilities. Not only that, but the app provides detailed descriptions of famous local attractions, enabling users to experience a self-guided tour at their own pace. 

  • MyTranslink

Take full advantage of Brisbane’s world-class public transit with the MyTranslink app. This app houses all the information you need to navigate the city without a car. It allows users to plan trips, look up schedules, receive stop alerts, and coordinate transfers for trains, trams, buses, and ferries. Plus, it even includes traffic updates to keep you on time. 

The app saves your favourite routes and stops and sends you push notifications to alert you of any detours or delays. The best part is that this app is designed to be used offline so it won’t use up your precious data. 

  • QueenslandRail

The train is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to commute around Queensland. Download the free Queensland Rail Mobile App to make your train journey as seamless as possible.

The app includes features that allow users to:

  • Find station information, location, and hours of operation
  • Report lost or stolen items
  • Report maintenance issues 
  • Connect to TransLink journey planner 
  • QLDTraffic

Want to receive important traffic alerts on your phone? 

The QLDTraffic app is managed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads who are responsible for providing users with information about road conditions, crashes, hazards, and road closures. With this app, you can plan your journey in advance to avoid being stuck in traffic. Best of all, the app sends users personalised push notifications alerting them to traffic interruptions along their regular routes, helping them stay on schedule. 

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Entertainment 

Need inspiration for your next day trip or night out? Here are the best Queensland apps to check out for a good time!

  • BCEC Live

The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Center, located in South Bank, is a hub for various cultural events, meet-ups, and exhibitions. 

If you’re looking for a fun weekend activity, using the BCEC Live app is a great way to see what events are currently running. Plus, the app includes useful information about how to get to the BCEC, as well as facilities, cafes & restaurants, and maps of the venue. 

  • Village Roadshow Theme Parks App

Planning to visit one of the Gold Coast’s top-rated theme parks? Be park ready with the Village Roadshow Theme Parks app. This app allows you to purchase tickets, passes, and extras for the following theme parks: 

  • Warner Bros Movie World
  • Sea World 
  • Wet’n’Wild Paradise Country
  • Australian Outback Spectacular 

Simply download the app to gain access to interactive venue maps, check wait times, and look up timetables for live shows and entertainment. Best of all, this app gives you access to Virtual Queue, the all-new feature that allows you to reserve a spot in line for your favourite rides. 

  • Brissy Bars

Looking to explore Brisbane’s bustling nightlife? With so many great options, it’s tough to decide where to go. Luckily, the free Brissy Bars apps can help you narrow down your top picks. This app features detailed information about venues, including ratings, events and special offers, menus and pricing–all in one convenient location.

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Nature 

This area is renowned for its natural attractions. Here are the best apps to help you discover all the natural beauty that Brisbane has to offer. 

  • MyRanger

My Ranger is one of the best Queensland apps for locals looking to explore wildlife in the area. This app contains detailed information about Springbrook National Park and David Fleay Wildlife Park, including virtual guided tours and interactive maps. 

Plus, it’s completely free to use! From safety tips to accessibility and facility information, this app has everything you need to enjoy the breathtaking sights in Queensland’s parks. 

  • Qld Fishing 2.0 

Calling all aquatic enthusiasts! Queensland is home to many diverse fish species that will amaze even the most seasoned fisherman. If you’re a recreational fisher, you can stay up-to-date on fishing rules and regulations with the Queensland Recreational Fishing App. This app includes everything from species identification, possession and size limits, closed water, access to tide and much, much more!

  • Field Guide to Queensland Fauna 

Queensland is known for its diverse wildlife. In fact, it’s home to 100s of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and marine animals that are native to the area. If you’re a nature buff who’s interested in learning more about these unique species, this is the app for you. 

The Field Guide app includes detailed descriptions and images of more than 560 species that live in Queensland. It also provides a distribution map and information about the endangered status of various species. It even includes sound recordings of various animals to help you better identify them.

To use the app, simply look up the name of the species you’re interested in learning more about, or browse by category if you’re unsure of the name. 

 

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Housing 

  • Housing Assist Qld

If you’re eligible for a Bond Loan or Rental Grant, the Housing Assist Qld app provides information and services that enable users to check the status of their application, check their Bond Loan balance, and make payments, along with other housing-related services.

  • Tenant Assist Qld

The Tenant Assist Qld app is designed to help public housing tenants manage their tenancy.  This free app allows users to request maintenance, check their balance on rental accounts, make payments, update contact info, and much more. 

Kids

  • Brisbane Kids

Need help entertaining your little ones? Brisbane Kids is an app with a comprehensive list of child-friendly events and activities. The app also includes information about community resources, classes, education, and special needs to help support your child’s growth and development.

 

Emergency Preparedness 

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the worst-case scenario, even when hoping for the best. Here is a round-up of the best Queensland apps to help keep you and your family safe in the event of an emergency. 

  • Emergency+

The Emergency+ app has a built-in GPS function that enables emergency operators to easily track the location of the caller when using the app. This feature effectively improves the speed and accuracy at which call responders can reach you. The app also includes calling options for the Police Assitance Line (PAL) and the State Emergency Services (SES). 

  • Bureau of Meteorology 

Australia is no stranger to natural disasters, which is why it’s good to be in the loop about forecasts and warnings in the Queensland area. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), Australia’s national weather and climate agency, has an app that helps users stay current on everything from the weather forecast to environmental disasters headed their way. 

 

All-in-One App

  • Brisbane app

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all things Brisbane, look no further than the Brisbane app, powered by Brisbane City Council. This app houses information about local events, businesses, and unique experiences this city has to offer. Download it for free on the App Store or Google Play and start exploring today!

So you’ve got a fantastic app concept. You’re probably eager to get it out there before someone else does. We’ll guide you through the process of commencing from design to development. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our DreamWalk in Brisbane team.

 

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About the Author

Joseph Russell is an award-winning app designer, app strategist and founder of DreamWalk. Over his 11 year career, Joseph has helped hundreds of businesses and startup founders plan, design, develop and launch successful apps.

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