In short:
Victoria’s rail network has shifted into a new operating phase with the Big Switch now live following the full integration of the Metro Tunnel. Timetables, routes and connections have changed across the system, with further service increases expected as the network settles through 2026.
Major Rail Timetable Changes In Place
Victoria’s rail network has entered a new phase with the rollout of what the state government is calling the Big Switch, marking the full integration of the Metro Tunnel into the metropolitan network.
The change represents the largest coordinated timetable and service update in decades, with more than 1,200 additional train services now running each week and widespread adjustments made across metropolitan and regional lines.
The Big Switch brings new cross-city running for the Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, which now operate continuously through the Metro Tunnel. The flow-on effects are being felt across the western suburbs, where services have been re-timed and rerouted to fit the new network layout.
The Werribee and Williamstown lines are currently running directly to Flinders Street rather than through the City Loop. Later in the year, these lines are expected to connect with the Sandringham Line to form a new cross-city service, changing long-established travel patterns.
Outside peak periods, trains are now scheduled to run at least every 10 minutes on key corridors, with further frequency increases planned later in the year on western routes.
Bus services are also part of the Big Switch, with the first of 270 revised bus timetables introduced to improve connections with train services. More timetable changes are expected as the network settles and passenger travel patterns become clearer.
For many commuters, the scale of the changes means familiar journeys now look different. Connections, stopping patterns and city access points have shifted, and passengers are being encouraged to check updated timetables before travelling.
Since opening in November, more than 800,000 passengers have used the new Metro Tunnel stations. Transport authorities say the Big Switch is the first stage of further service increases and reliability improvements planned across the network during 2026.
