Due to open before the 2019 state election,the completion comes a year later than the NSW government first forecast,and almost twice the original cost following several blowouts and contractor disputes.
Transport Minister Andrew Constance wasn’t on hand for the first L3 tram to leave Juniors Kingsford given the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in place across the country.
He said the service was opening for essential workers to get to their jobs.
“We need everyone to stay at home,it's not a time to be getting on the light rail for fun,” Mr Constance said.
“I would like to thank the tram drivers and workers who will ensure this light rail service runs,providing a direct link to the city from Kingsford as well as connections to the L2 Randwick line which services the Randwick health precinct.”
In a pre-recorded message issued to media on Friday,Mr Constance thanked local residents and businesses he said had “endured so much” during the construction.