In short:
Major pedestrian closures will be in place across Melbourne’s CBD from 10.30pm on New Year’s Eve, affecting Swanston Street, Flinders Street and surrounding areas. Wyndham residents are being urged to plan ahead and head straight to designated Celebration Zones as the safest way to enjoy the fireworks.
City Goers Urged To Plan Nights
Wyndham residents heading into Melbourne’s CBD for New Year’s Eve are being urged to plan ahead, with major changes to pedestrian access in place to manage large crowds and keep people safe.
From 10.30pm, large sections of the central city will be closed to foot traffic as authorities move to control crowd movement around key fireworks viewing areas.
Pedestrian access to Swanston Street will be blocked between Hamer Hall and Collins Street, including Princes Bridge and the area outside Flinders Street Station.
Flinders Street and Flinders Lane will also be closed to pedestrians between Elizabeth Street and Russell Street, cutting off several traditional walking routes through the CBD.
Anyone arriving later in the evening or moving through the city after the fireworks should expect detours and slower movement around train stations and river crossings.
Instead of heading into the CBD spine, families and groups are being encouraged to go directly to Melbourne’s free, family-friendly Celebration Zones.
These are located at Docklands, Flagstaff Gardens, Kings Domain and Treasury Gardens, and are specifically designed to safely handle large crowds.
The Celebration Zones offer some of the best inner-city views of the fireworks, along with activations including live performances, music, food trucks and silent discos.
Authorities say all safety protocols have been addressed, with crowd monitoring, first aid services, controlled access points and a strong emergency services presence throughout the night.
Public transport is expected to be extremely busy, particularly after midnight. Wyndham residents are encouraged to arrive early, follow signage and directions from staff, and allow extra time to get home.
Officials are also urging people to look after one another, stay hydrated and remain within designated viewing areas.
For those travelling in from Wyndham, choosing a Celebration Zone and avoiding closed CBD corridors is being strongly recommended as the safest and most straightforward way to enjoy New Year’s Eve in the city.
