Victoria’s Big Build is ramping up this winter with widespread rail, road, and tunnel upgrades across Melbourne.
From rail line closures to freeway disruptions, the winter of 2025 will be a busy one for infrastructure projects in Victoria.
The Big Build, one of Australia’s largest public transport transformations, is entering key delivery phases across Melbourne’s suburbs and regional corridors. If you live in, work in, or plan to travel around Melbourne over the next few months, here’s what you need to know.
Summary:
Train line closures, roadworks, and tram reroutes will impact travel across suburbs including Newport, Box Hill, Burwood, Werribee, and South Geelong between June and August 2025.
Plan ahead by using the PTV app and checking Big Build alerts for real-time updates and detour information.
Contents
What Is Victoria’s Big Build?
Victoria’s Big Build is a multi-year infrastructure program designed to enhance transportation across the state.
It includes major rail, road, and tunnel projects such as the Metro Tunnel, North East Link, Suburban Rail Loop, and West Gate Tunnel.
These upgrades are designed to ease congestion, increase transport capacity, and prepare Melbourne for future growth.
Each year, winter works ramp up due to favourable construction conditions, which means increased disruptions, but also visible progress.
Major Disruptions Across Melbourne This Winter
Multiple transport lines, roads, and intersections will face closures and delays due to accelerated works in winter 2025.
Expect interruptions on rail lines, freeway access points, and local streets. These disruptions are necessary for critical upgrades across both metro and regional networks.
The main disruptions include:
- Metro Tunnel Trial Runs: From June 21, test trains will begin running, causing changes on the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines.
- Geelong-Waurn Ponds Line Closures: Coaches will replace trains between June 15 and August 25 due to duplication works.
- West Gate Freeway Lane Closures: Lane reductions will impact routes near Grieve Parade and the West Gate Bridge.
- Box Hill and Burwood Traffic Changes: Road closures for SRL station construction will affect Whitehorse Road and Burwood Highway.
These disruptions are scheduled and will be actively communicated via the official website bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions.
How These Projects Will Affect Your Commute
Melbourne commuters should prepare for longer travel times and rerouted services during key construction periods.
The projects will affect train services, tram stops, and freeway lanes, requiring commuters to allow extra time or find alternate routes.
Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham line users will need to change trains at Footscray or Caulfield. Geelong and Warrnambool passengers will switch to buses for several weeks.
Drivers in the west should watch for lane closures and detours, especially during off-peak periods and overnight.
Key Projects to Watch in 2025
Several high-impact infrastructure projects are entering major milestones in mid-to-late 2025.
Among the dozens of ongoing builds, a few standout projects will define Melbourne’s transport transformation this year.
These include:
- Metro Tunnel: The tunnel is now being trialled for passenger use with a full public opening planned for later in 2025.
- West Gate Tunnel: Works are approaching final surfacing stages with new freeway ramps under construction.
- North East Link: Massive tunnel boring operations are underway to connect the M80 with the Eastern Freeway.
- Suburban Rail Loop East: New station sites from Cheltenham to Box Hill are progressing, with ongoing site closures and excavation.
These projects represent long-term improvements to capacity, reliability, and travel times across the city.
Plan Ahead: Tips for Getting Around During Winter Works
Commuters and drivers can avoid delays by planning ahead, checking live updates, and using alternative options.
Planning ahead will make winter travel much easier while works continue. Delays are expected, but they’re manageable with the right tools and awareness.
Here are some tips to help navigate disruptions:
- Use the PTV App or website to check real-time train and tram updates.
- Subscribe to Big Build alerts for road closures and detour information.
- Allow extra travel time especially on affected routes like West Gate Freeway or Box Hill precinct.
- Consider alternative transport such as cycling or working from home on high-impact days.
Why This Infrastructure Push?
These short-term disruptions are paving the way for a faster, more connected Melbourne in the years ahead.
The Big Build is more than a collection of projects; it’s a coordinated effort to future-proof Victoria’s economy and lifestyle. Once complete, commuters will experience less congestion, faster rail trips, and improved safety across the network. Projects like the Metro Tunnel and North East Link are expected to remove thousands of cars from roads, helping to reduce emissions and cut commute times.
Events and Suburbs Affected by the Works
If you’re attending events or travelling to affected suburbs, check transport details in advance.
Several key Melbourne suburbs will experience interruptions. If you’re visiting for work or play, take a moment to confirm transport plans.
Notable examples include:
- Docklands – near the West Gate Tunnel site, impacting Firelight Festival access.
- Box Hill & Burwood – lane closures affecting access to local shops and markets.
- Newport – Champion Road and Maddox Road are closed for level crossing removals.
- Geelong line users – events in the Bellarine or Surf Coast areas may require coach travel.
Get Around Melbourne Without A Car
With widespread rail shutdowns and road closures this winter, avoiding car travel may save you time. Melbourne’s public transport, bike lanes, and e-scooter options can help you bypass delays and reach your destination faster.
For practical alternatives during the Big Build disruptions, read our guide to getting around Melbourne without a car.
