Public Notice: Major Transport Disruptions and Health Advisories for February 9

Official Public Service Announcement: Monday, 9 February 2026

The City of Melbourne and Victorian state authorities have issued several critical notices for Monday, 9 February 2026. Residents, commuters, and visitors are advised to review the following updates regarding transport infrastructure, public health, and community participation.

Major Transport and Roadway Updates

Commuters returning to work this Monday morning should be aware of significant changes to the Eastern Freeway following a major weekend closure. While the citybound lanes between Doncaster Road and Bulleen Road are scheduled to reopen by 5:00 am on Monday, 9 February, significant traffic conditions remain in place. Under the new North East Link worksite configuration, citybound lanes are now split into two sections. Speed limits have been permanently reduced through this corridor, and motorists are urged to follow on-road signage and avoid late lane changes. Significant delays of up to 60 minutes may persist during the morning peak as traffic adjusts to the new lane split.

Within the Central Business District, several long-term projects continue to impact local movements:

• Queen and Franklin Streets: A full northbound road closure remains at this intersection for telecommunications upgrades. Works are scheduled to continue through 20 February.
• Elizabeth Street: Northbound closures between Franklin and Therry streets persist for stormwater drainage renewals. These works are expected to run until early March.
• Flinders Street: The southern footpath adjacent to Federation Square remains closed due to ongoing Town Hall Station construction. Pedestrian diversions are active.

Public Health Advisories

The Chief Health Officer has maintained an active health alert regarding a rise in travel-related measles cases across Victoria. As of February 2026, six confirmed cases have been recorded, primarily linked to international travel. Individuals who have recently returned from overseas or visited transit hubs are advised to monitor for symptoms, including fever, cough, and a blotchy rash. Residents are encouraged to verify their immunization status with a general practitioner.

Additionally, a heat-related health risk advisory remains active for the metropolitan area. Citizens are reminded to stay hydrated and check on vulnerable community members during periods of elevated temperatures.

Community Consultation and Legal Notices

The City of Melbourne invites residents to participate in the final selection of the city’s official Floral Emblem. Voting for the local native flower that best represents the municipality is open until Sunday, 15 February. Feedback is also currently being sought on the city’s draft Community Engagement Policy.

Property owners are reminded that notifications for the Vacant Residential Land Tax (VRLT) must be lodged with the State Revenue Office by 15 February 2026. This year marks the expansion of the tax to include unimproved residential land across metropolitan Melbourne that has remained undeveloped for five years or more.

Public Safety Notice

Victoria Police will be conducting a designated OMNI operation under the Control of Weapons Act today, Monday, 9 February. These operations grant police additional powers to conduct searches for weapons in specified public areas to ensure community safety. High-visibility patrols will be present in major transport hubs and shopping precincts throughout the day.