Official Public Notice: Road, Health, and Transport Updates for Sunday, 15 March

Public Health Advisory: Increased Measles Risk

The Victorian Department of Health has issued an active health alert regarding an increased risk of measles across the state. Residents and visitors in Melbourne are advised to remain vigilant for symptoms, which typically include fever, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes, followed by a red blotchy rash. As of mid-March 2026, several public exposure sites remain under monitoring. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to contact their general practitioner to discuss the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. If symptoms develop, please notify your medical facility prior to arrival to prevent further community transmission.

CBD Infrastructure and Road Management

The City of Melbourne has confirmed several road and footpath closures effective Sunday, 15 March 2026, to facilitate essential private construction and infrastructure maintenance. Key disruptions include:

• Collins Street: Partial northern footpath and eastbound road closures between Exhibition Street and Russell Street will be in effect from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. A full eastbound road closure will commence at 8:00 pm as part of ongoing night works.
• Elizabeth Street: A full northbound road closure remains in place between Franklin Street and Therry Street.
• William Street: Commuters should expect partial southbound road closures and full eastern footpath closures between La Trobe Street and A’Beckett Street.
• Little Lonsdale Street: This thoroughfare is subject to a full road closure between Russell Street and Swanston Street.
• Spencer Street: Sewer maintenance and cleaning utilizing vacuum trucks are scheduled. Pedestrian management measures will be active.

AFL Sporting Precinct Access

In preparation for the Round 1 AFL match between Melbourne and St Kilda at the MCG, specific traffic management protocols will be enforced. Barassi Way (formerly Brunton Avenue) will be closed to all vehicular traffic between 12:45 pm and 6:45 pm on Sunday. Spectators are encouraged to utilize public transport, though they should note that Richmond Station no longer serves the Cranbourne, Pakenham, or Sunbury lines due to the recent opening of the Metro Tunnel.

Public Transport and City Disruptions

Public transport users should prepare for service adjustments across the metropolitan network. Yarra Trams has issued a notification for all city-bound routes on Sunday, 15 March, due to a planned rally in the CBD. Commuters should expect delays and diversions throughout the afternoon. Additionally, services to Showgrounds and Flemington Racecourse stations are restricted to event ticket holders only, with no public exits available to surrounding residential roads.

Environment and Council Services

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria forecasts a 'Good' air quality rating for the Melbourne region this Sunday. Residents are also reminded that the Future Melbourne Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 17 March, at the Melbourne Town Hall. Agenda papers are currently available for public review via the official Council portal.