The Public Transport Association of Australia and New Zealand (PTAANZ) has hailed the addition of more than 1,000 new services to Melbourne’s rail network, welcoming the Victorian Government’s release of the Big Switch timetable, and how the Metro Tunnels will enable the next wave of infrastructure investment.
PTAANZ Chief Executive Lauren Streifer said the Big Switch, due to go live on 1 February 2026, was a win for commuters and communities across Melbourne:
“Seeing stunning new Metro Tunnel stations on opening day was impressive, but seeing passengers explore new connections and change how they move will be the real game-changer. The new Big Switch timetable will reshape the map of Melbourne. It offers more frequent, more reliable transport choices, and will shift trips away from roads, reducing congestion.”
“1,000 new weekly services mean Melburnians will enjoy more seamless interchange between more trains, buses and trams. This means more access to opportunities, more fun in the city, and faster journeys home. The biggest transport change in 40 years might take a bit of getting used to, but soon we’ll wonder how we ever managed without it.”
Streifer congratulated all involved in creating the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, the extra capacity of which enables the Big Switch, and highlighted how investment in public transport will benefit the state:
“Investment in public transport means communities across Victoria can thrive, even as Melbourne grows” Ms Streifer said.
“Shifting more journeys to more sustainable modes like public transport, walking and cycling creates stronger communities, accommodates population growth, combats climate change, and drives economic productivity across the state.”
