Rail infrastructure and eliminating long-standing traffic hazards, construction crews in Melton have commenced piling works for two key rail bridges that will replace level crossings at Coburns Road and Exford Road.
These works form part of a broader plan to elevate the Ballarat Line through this fast-growing corridor west of Melbourne, and to deliver a reimagined, fully accessible Melton Station that will serve as a major node for regional and suburban connectivity. As part of this major transport overhaul, the project team is deploying a 75-tonne piling rig to dig 40 reinforced concrete piles, each plunging up to nine metres into the ground, to establish a strong foundation for the elevated rail bridges. The operation, while technically demanding, marks a critical early stage in a long-anticipated development that aims to permanently separate road and rail traffic—a measure projected to reduce congestion, improve pedestrian safety, and foster more reliable public transport services in the region. With the region’s population forecast to double over the coming decades, such future-proofing infrastructure is considered vital to easing the pressures of urban sprawl and car dependency.
The new rail bridges are expected to completely eliminate the delays and safety concerns associated with the existing level crossings, which have long posed risks to both drivers and pedestrians. By lifting rail lines above the roads, the initiative not only promises faster journeys and fewer disruptions for commuters, but also enhances emergency access, reduces vehicle idling, and curtails emissions—aligning closely with Victoria’s broader climate goals. Such transformations are central to Australia’s evolving strategy for low-carbon, equitable, and transit-oriented urban growth. In tandem with the elevated rail section, Melton Station is undergoing a full-scale redevelopment, which will see it equipped with four platforms and upgraded amenities that meet the demands of a modern, inclusive transport hub. The station will cater to both terminating trains and through services on the Ballarat Line, offering flexibility for operational management and a better passenger experience. The new design incorporates accessibility features such as lifts, ramps, and tactile surfaces to ensure mobility for all users, reinforcing the state’s commitment to creating infrastructure that is inclusive by design.
The broader project forms part of the Victorian Government’s level crossing removal programme, which has already seen dozens of similar intersections eliminated across Melbourne. Though construction zones may temporarily inconvenience nearby residents, the long-term vision is undeniably progressive. The transformation in Melton is not merely about structural engineering—it’s a blueprint for safer roads, stronger communities, and a shift towards sustainable and connected suburban living. As piling activity continues and the elevated spine of the project begins to take form, Melton edges closer to becoming a benchmark for future-ready regional infrastructure.
Melton Rail Bridge Construction Gains Speed
