Official Roundup: Free Public Transport and Major Weekend Infrastructure Projects

Official Public Notices for Saturday, 4 April 2026

As the lead editor for melbourne.news, we have compiled the following roundup of official notices, transport alerts, and health advisories active for Saturday, 4 April 2026. Residents and visitors are encouraged to review these updates to ensure a safe and smooth experience across the city during the first weekend of the school holidays.

Statewide Free Public Transport Initiative

In a significant announcement from the Victorian Government, all public transport across the state is free of charge for the entire month of April 2026. This initiative, which commenced on 31 March and runs through to 30 April, includes all metropolitan trains, trams, and buses, as well as the V/Line regional network. Passengers are not required to touch on or touch off with their Myki cards, as ticket gates at major hubs have been programmed to remain open. This measure has been introduced as part of a macroeconomic energy conservation strategy following recent global fuel supply disruptions, aiming to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road.

Road and Infrastructure Updates

• Bulleen Road Drainage Works: Major lane and road closures are currently in effect on Bulleen Road between Bridge and Avon streets. These works are part of the North East Link project’s Manningham Road interchange construction and are required to complete critical drainage upgrades. Closures are expected to remain in place for approximately two weeks. Commuters should anticipate significant delays in the Bulleen and Templestowe areas and are advised to seek alternative routes where possible.
• Maddox Drain Remediation: Structure remediation works on the Maddox Drain in Altona are scheduled to conclude today, 4 April. While the project is wrapping up, local residents may observe minor cleanup activities and the removal of temporary traffic management barriers near the site throughout the afternoon.
• Eastern Freeway Traffic Conditions: Motorists are reminded that citybound lanes on the Eastern Freeway between Doncaster Road and Bulleen Road have been split into two sections to facilitate ongoing concrete structure works. Drivers intending to exit at Bulleen Road must remain in the far-left lane, as the remaining right lanes do not provide exit access.

Health and Public Safety Advisories

• Legionnaires’ Disease Cluster: The Victorian Department of Health maintains an active health advisory regarding a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases linked to the Craigieburn area. Any residents or visitors to the northern metropolitan region who develop symptoms such as high fever, chills, cough, or shortness of breath should seek immediate medical attention.
• Measles Risk Alert: Health authorities continue to warn of an increased risk of measles transmission across Victoria. With the Term 1 school holidays now in effect (running from 3 April to 19 April), ensuring that all family members are fully vaccinated is highly recommended before visiting high-traffic public precincts or event spaces.
• Community Safety Officer Presence: The City of Melbourne has officially doubled its contingent of Community Safety Officers (CSOs). Today, 22 officers will be providing an enhanced on-street presence across the CBD and surrounding laneways to assist the public and deter anti-social behaviour during the busy weekend period.

Council Governance and Community Feedback

2026–27 Draft Budget Consultation: Residents and business owners are invited to have their say on the City of Melbourne’s draft 2026–27 Budget. The proposed budget includes $6.3 million for community hubs and expanded support for vulnerable populations. Feedback can be provided through the Participate Melbourne portal until 6:00 PM on 28 April 2026.