Free Public Transport Month Begins as Major Road Closures Hit West Gate and Bulleen

Free Public Transport for Easter Saturday

As Melbourne heads into Easter Saturday, April 4, 2026, the most significant news for commuters is the statewide free public transport initiative. To address ongoing energy costs and encourage a shift away from private vehicle use, the Victorian Government has suspended all myki fares for the month of April. Commuters can travel on all metropolitan trains, trams, and buses without touching on. This 'walk-on' protocol also extends to V/Line rail services, though those planning to use regional coaches must still book a seat in advance via the PTV website.

While travel is free, services today will operate on a standard Saturday timetable. Commuters should be aware that several lines, including the Werribee, Frankston, Belgrave, and Lilydale lines, are currently operating under temporary timetables or with planned works. Passengers are encouraged to check real-time departures before heading to the station.

Major Roadworks and Freeway Closures

Drivers in the west and north-east will face significant delays today due to major construction milestones. Key disruptions include:

• West Gate Freeway: A continuous outbound lane closure is in effect between Williamstown Road and Millers Road for tunnel port works. This closure started Friday night and will remain in place until 5am Monday. Additionally, the Williamstown Road outbound entry ramp to the West Gate Freeway is closed. Motorists should detour via Melbourne Road and Blackshaws Road.
• Bulleen Road: All northbound lanes of Bulleen Road are closed between Manningham Road and Bridge Street. These works are part of the North East Link integration and will cause significant bottlenecks near the Eastern Freeway interchange.
• High Street, Epping: A full closure is in place in both directions between Memorial Avenue and Findon Road for critical drainage works. This closure is scheduled to last until Tuesday morning.
• Eastern Freeway: Citybound lanes between Bulleen Road and Burke Road remain split into two sections. While lanes remain open, speed limits are reduced, and the unusual road configuration may cause confusion for weekend travelers.

CBD and Local Street Impacts

In the city center, several local streets are impacted by ongoing rectification and infrastructure works. In the CBD North precinct, Stewart Street and parts of A'Beckett Street and Franklin Street have various road and footpath closures in place. These works are generally concentrated between Elizabeth and Swanston Streets, so drivers and pedestrians should plan for minor diversions.

Looking ahead to late tonight, travelers should note that road closures around CityLink and the West Gate Freeway will commence at 10pm to prepare for the Run for the Kids event scheduled for Sunday morning. If you are traveling through the city late this evening, expect to be diverted away from Batman Avenue and the Domain Tunnel.