City Bulletin: The 'Big Switch' and Summer Safety Advisories

Major Transport Update: 'The Big Switch' Commences

Today marks the first full weekday of the 'Big Switch,' the most significant transformation of Melbourne's rail network in decades. Following the successful launch of the Metro Tunnel, the new high-capacity network structure is now fully operational for the Monday morning peak. This overhaul changes the daily commute for thousands of residents across the metropolitan area.

• Line Changes: Trains on the Cranbourne, Pakenham, and Sunbury lines have officially moved out of the City Loop. These services now run exclusively through the new Metro Tunnel, bypassing the traditional loop stations to provide a direct cross-city link.
• Service Frequency: Commuters on these lines can now experience a 'turn-up-and-go' service model, with trains arriving every 3 to 4 minutes during peak periods.
• City Loop Reconfigurations: To balance the network, Frankston Line services have returned to the City Loop. Passengers are advised to check the new V/Line and metropolitan timetables, which came into effect over the weekend.

Public Health and Community Awareness

Health authorities and community organizations have issued several notices for Monday, 2 February, focusing on both local safety and international awareness initiatives.

• Physical Disability Awareness Day: Today marks the 2026 observance of Physical Disability Awareness Day. The City of Melbourne encourages the community to recognize the contributions and resilience of people living with disabilities and to promote accessibility in all public spaces.
• Tinnitus Awareness Week: Beginning today and running through 8 February, this initiative aims to educate the public on the management of tinnitus and the critical importance of hearing protection.
• TGA Safety Advisory: The Therapeutic Goods Administration has issued a safety alert regarding counterfeit melatonin products. Residents are urged to exercise caution and ensure all therapeutic goods are sourced through registered Australian suppliers. Additionally, a product correction is underway for specific automated external defibrillator (AED) models.

Fire Safety and Seasonal Restrictions

As summer conditions persist, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) has designated a Fire Danger Rating of HIGH for the Central District today. While no Total Fire Ban is currently in place for the immediate Melbourne area, the risk remains elevated due to dry conditions and forecast temperatures reaching 24°C.

• Residents and visitors are reminded to remain vigilant and monitor the VicEmergency app for real-time updates.
• Fire restrictions remain in force across the municipality, and individuals are urged to review their bushfire survival plans, particularly those commuting to or from the city's outer northern and eastern fringes.

Council Governance and Public Meetings

The City of Melbourne continues its schedule of public governance with several upcoming items of interest for residents and business owners.

• Future Melbourne Committee: The first committee meeting for February is scheduled for Tuesday, 3 February, at 5:30 p.m. at the Melbourne Town Hall. Community members are invited to review the agenda documentation, which is currently available via the Council’s digital portal.
• Government Service Reporting: Today precedes the release of the 2026 Report on Government Services concerning Justice and Emergency Management. These reports provide essential data on the effectiveness of local and state services.