Official Public Notice: Post-Easter Service Updates and 2026-27 Budget Briefing

Official Public Notice: Post-Easter Operations and Infrastructure Advisory

Following the Easter long weekend, the City of Melbourne and Victorian state authorities have issued the following public service announcements and official notices for Tuesday, 7 April 2026. Residents and commuters are advised to review these updates regarding infrastructure disruptions, local governance, and seasonal health advisories.

Infrastructure and Transport Updates

• Eastern Freeway Major Works: Significant disruptions continue as part of the North East Link project. While current lanes remain open today, a full closure of the Springvale Road citybound entry ramp is scheduled to commence at 10:00 PM tomorrow, Wednesday, 8 April, lasting through late April. Commuters are urged to plan alternative routes via Middleborough Road or Blackburn Road.
• Road Rehabilitation: Essential maintenance and asphalt resurfacing are currently active on Westernport Road in Heath Hill. Motorists should expect lane closures and minor delays throughout the day. In the western suburbs, routine cleaning and vegetation maintenance are scheduled for the Western Roads Upgrade corridor.
• Metro Tunnel Service Status: Following the successful completion of the 'Big Switch' earlier this year, a reminder that the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines now operate exclusively through the Metro Tunnel. Passengers for these lines must use the five new underground stations (Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac). Frankston Line services have returned to their dedicated use of the City Loop.

Council Governance and Public Comment

The City of Melbourne has formally released the Draft Budget for the 2026-27 financial year. Key highlights of the $804.8 million proposal include a 2.75% average rate increase and a $175.1 million investment in capital works to improve city safety and accessibility. The public comment period is now active. Residents and business owners are encouraged to submit feedback on priorities such as the Garden City program and new laneway lighting initiatives. For those facing financial difficulty, the updated Financial Hardship Policy now includes expanded interest-free extension options.

Health and Community Services

• Autumn Health Advisory: With the arrival of cooler weather, the Department of Health has launched the 2026 respiratory illness vaccination program. Residents are encouraged to book influenza and updated COVID-19 boosters. Protective measures are particularly encouraged as schools remain on the Autumn holiday break.
• Professional Workshop: Moonee Valley City Council is hosting an official workshop today, 7 April, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Moonee Ponds Civic Centre. The session focuses on legislative compliance, whistleblower systems, and incident management for aged care providers.

School Holiday Safety Reminder

As Victorian government schools are currently observing the Autumn break until 19 April, the City reminds residents that 40km/h school zones remain active near various childcare centers and holiday program hubs. Please exercise additional caution in residential areas where community 'Boredom Buster' activities are taking place in local parks.