Free Travel and Freeway Lane Splits: Tuesday Morning Commute Update

Commuter Alert: Free Travel Continues as Freeway Works Ramp Up

Good morning, Melbourne. As we head back to the daily grind this Tuesday, April 7, following the Easter long weekend, there is a mix of significant news and major construction updates for your morning commute. The most notable headline for today is the ongoing cost-of-living relief, with free public transport currently in effect across the entire Victorian network.

Public Transport: No Myki Required Today

In response to the current fuel price emergency, the Victorian Government has suspended all Myki fares for the month of April. Whether you are using metropolitan trains, trams, or buses, or heading into the city via V/Line, you do not need to touch on or off. Myki gates at major hubs like Southern Cross and Flinders Street will remain open throughout the day. This historic measure was triggered by a surge in global oil prices and aims to encourage more residents to shift away from private vehicles.

As of this morning, all major metropolitan train lines including the Pakenham, Frankston, and Sunbury lines are reporting a good service with no major unplanned disruptions. Commuters should benefit from a smoother transition back to work today, though patronage is expected to be higher than usual given the free travel initiative.

Major Roadworks and Freeway Adjustments

For those choosing to drive, the North East Link project is causing significant shifts on the Eastern Freeway. Motorists should take note of the following changes to traffic flow:

• Eastern Freeway Lane Splitting: Between Doncaster Road and Bulleen Road, citybound lanes have been split into two distinct sections under newly installed concrete structures. If you intend to exit at Bulleen Road, you must position yourself in the far-left lane well in advance. To continue toward the city, use the three right-hand lanes.
• Speed Reductions: Long-term speed limits of 80km/h and 60km/h remain in place along sections of the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road. These are essential for the safety of crews working on the new interchanges and flyover lanes.
• Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) Monash: Main construction works have officially commenced this month at the future Monash Station site. Expect increased truck activity and minor local delays around the intersection of Normanby and Howleys roads in Clayton.

Upcoming Closures to Watch

While road conditions are relatively stable today, commuters should prepare for a major disruption starting tomorrow night. The Springvale Road citybound entry ramp is scheduled to close for three weeks starting at 10:00 pm Wednesday, April 8. If this is your primary route onto the freeway, we recommend planning your detour via Middleborough Road or Blackburn Road starting tomorrow morning.

Drive safely and take advantage of the fare-free period to avoid peak-hour congestion where possible.