Major Melbourne train disruptions begin 21 June 2025 due to Metro Tunnel trials. Learn what lines are affected and how to plan your commute smartly.

From 21 June 2025, major Melbourne train disruptions will begin as part of the Metro Tunnel trial and other large-scale infrastructure works. If you travel on the Sunbury, Cranbourne, or Pakenham lines, it’s time to get prepared for changes, delays, and rerouting—especially at Caulfield and Footscray stations. Here’s your essential commuter guide to getting through June without the stress.

🚦 Quick Overview of the Changes

If you’re a Melbourne local who relies on public transport, here are the fast facts you need now:

🗓️ Start Date: 21 June 2025
🚆 Affected Lines: Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham
🔁 Key Transfer Stations: Caulfield and Footscray
⚠️ Why: Metro Tunnel trial + network upgrades
⏰ Impact: Delays, transfers, and bus replacements
📱 Stay Updated: PTV and Metro Trains alerts

🚧 What’s Causing the Disruption?

The Metro Tunnel trial marks a huge milestone in Melbourne’s public transport future. This is the final testing stage before the tunnel opens to passengers in 2025. While that’s great news for long-term travel, it does mean short-term inconvenience now.

In addition to tunnel testing, other infrastructure works across Melbourne are scheduled during this time—causing even more service adjustments across key lines.

🚆 Which Train Lines Are Affected?

The disruptions are not system-wide, but they’ll heavily impact commuters in the west and southeast suburbs.

🔸 Sunbury Line

• No direct access to the City Loop at times
• Transfer required at Footscray Station
• Peak-hour delays expected
• Bus replacements on some late nights

🔸 Cranbourne & Pakenham Lines

• Trains terminate at Caulfield Station
• Passengers must switch to city-bound services
• Weekend bus replacements possible
• Platform crowding expected at Caulfield during peak hours

TIP: Try travelling outside the 7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM peak windows to avoid the worst congestion.

🧭 Why These Disruptions Matter

This isn’t just a random maintenance event—it’s part of a historic overhaul of Melbourne’s transport network. The goal is to:

• Cut travel times to the CBD
• Ease pressure on the City Loop
• Improve service reliability for outer suburbs

The completed Metro Tunnel will connect Sunbury directly to Cranbourne/Pakenham, via new underground stations like Arden, Parkville, and Town Hall.

While June 2025 may bring some frustration, it’s paving the way for faster, smarter, and better-connected public transport across Melbourne.

💡 Smart Travel Tips for June Commuters

Here’s how to survive the disruptions and stay stress-free:

✅ Use the PTV app for live updates and platform info
✅ Add an extra 20–30 minutes to your commute
✅ Avoid traditional peak-hour travel times
✅ Follow signs for bus replacements at stations
✅ Check the PTV website nightly for changes
✅ Be patient—crowding will be more frequent

📅 How Long Will These Changes Last?

While the trial begins on 21 June, disruptions are expected to continue through mid-July 2025. Final timing depends on how the testing phase progresses.

Stay updated via:

• 🔗 Metro Trains Melbourne – Service Updates
• 🔗 PTV Journey Planner

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you or your family commute on the Sunbury, Cranbourne, or Pakenham lines, the Melbourne train disruptions in June 2025 will likely affect your routine. While inconvenient now, it’s a major step toward better train services for all Melburnians.

✅ Plan ahead
✅ Stay flexible
✅ Check updates daily

You’re not just navigating delays—you’re part of building a better-connected Melbourne.

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