Melbourne Metro Tunnel Adds 1,000 Services
Melbourne Metro Tunnel to add 1,000 train services and five new stations in 2026
Melbourne Metro Tunnel Adds 1,000 Services
Melbourne's Metro Tunnel will transform how Victorians travel when new timetables launch in 2026, transit officials said. The network expansion adds more than 1,000 extra train services across the system, with Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury Line trains running exclusively through the new tunnel. Five new stations will open as part of the project, creating new connections throughout Melbourne's core.
Five New Stations Connect Key Districts
The Metro Tunnel includes five state-of-the-art stations designed to improve access across Melbourne. Arden Station in North Melbourne, Parkville Station in Parkville, State Library in the CBD, Town Hall Station in the CBD, and Anzac Station on St Kilda Road will serve major employment, education and cultural destinations. The project represents one of Victoria's largest public transport infrastructure investments, officials said. The new stations feature modern design elements and improved passenger amenities compared to older stations on the network.
Underground Connections Link City Loop and Tunnel
Passengers can change between City Loop and Metro Tunnel services using underground connections at key interchange points, according to transit officials. Flinders Street Station connects to Town Hall Station, while Melbourne Central Station links to State Library Station through underground walkways. Riders don't need to tap on or off when transferring between services at these connection points. The seamless transfers are designed to make cross-city journeys faster and more convenient for commuters and visitors.
New Trains Feature Accessibility Upgrades
High Capacity Metro Trains operating through the tunnel will include accessibility improvements for riders with disabilities, officials said. The trains feature improved passenger information displays, audible announcements, hearing loops and accessible seating. All five new stations are designed with step-free access from street level to platforms. Bus timetable changes will also be implemented from April to coordinate with the new train services, though specific route modifications weren't detailed in available information.
Riders Should Plan Trips Before Changes Take Effect
The network changes will affect travel patterns for thousands of daily riders across Melbourne's train, tram and bus systems. Transit officials released a new Victorian train network map showing all route modifications and encouraged passengers to use journey planning tools to check their new connections in advance. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for Melbourne's Metro Tunnel services and the broader transit network, helping riders navigate the changes when new timetables take effect in 2026.
