

NCA Snapshot
Edition 8: April 2025
Connect Melbourne's North campaign continues
Our Connect Melbourne’s North: It’s time to transform our transport campaign is seeking urgent action to improve the transport system across our region.
​
The goal of our campaign is to transform the transport infrastructure in Melbourne's north to address severe traffic congestion, lengthy commutes, limited access to essential services and increasing social isolation.
​
Melbourne’s north region is home to one million people, accounting for 20 per cent of Greater Melbourne’s population. With a forecasted population increase to 1.5 million by 2036, its growth rate of 2.8 per cent significantly outpaces Greater Melbourne’s average of 1.6 per cent. Transport infrastructure has not kept pace with this unprecedented growth.
​
Currently, our community relies on a public transport system that does not meet their needs, forcing many to rely on personal vehicles and exacerbating congestion. For instance, a journey that takes 35 minutes by car can take over two hours by public transport, with weekend services being nearly non-existent in many areas.
​
Our campaign is focusing on key outcomes as suggested by our comprehensive research into the region’s transport needs:
-
duplication and extension of the Upfield rail line, a vital step to support our current and future populations
-
revision of the bus networks across Melbourne’s north
-
a bus route along the proposed Suburban Rail Link route
-
investment in active transport, including the Northern Trails
-
planning for infrastructure for the transition to electric vehicles.
​
Achieving these transport goals will require strong engagement and support from state and federal governments.
​
Effective transport solutions will bridge the gap between inner urban and outer areas, ensuring equal access to job, health and education centres. Seamless connectivity between different transport modes will make commuting smoother and hassle-free, with a focus on sustainable transport options for future planning.
​
To find out more, and to have your say, visit Connect Melbourne's North.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​

