Livestock Trucks Set to Trial Melbourne’s CityLink Tunnels –
A Game-Changer for the Industry

We are pleased to inform you the team at LRTAV has worked extensively with the Victorian Government, Transurban and the City of Melbourne to create a more efficient and safer road network for livestock transportation through Melbourne.

Starting January 1, 2025, livestock trucks will gain access to Melbourne’s CityLink Burnley & Domain tunnels as part of a 12-month trial.

This initiative is designed to address key challenges faced by livestock drivers, offering benefits in animal welfare, time management, and reducing the stress and hazards associated with navigating inner-city roads. 

Why This Trial Matters

Historically, livestock drivers have faced delays and risks associated with traversing Melbourne’s busy streets. Allowing trucks to access the CityLink tunnels offers a more direct and smoother route, which:

1. Improves Animal Welfare: A faster, less disruptive journey reduces stress on livestock, ensuring their well-being.

2. Enhances Efficiency: Streamlining routes helps drivers save valuable time, particularly during peak traffic hours.

3. Reduces Driver Stress: Avoiding congested city roads provides a safer and more manageable environment for drivers.

However, with these benefits come responsibilities to ensure the trial’s success. Strict adherence to the rules and commonsense during trip planning will be essential for all participants.

Trial Restrictions

To ensure the safety of all road users and the feasibility of expanding this program in the future, the following restrictions will apply:

• Overheight Warning lights: If your vehicle triggers the over-height warning lights, you must detour immediately. The new height limit triggers will be changed January 1st.

• Effluent Tank Management: Effluent tanks are to be emptied as thoroughly as possible before entering the CityLink network.

• Catwalk Requirement: All trailers must have a catwalk installed in the centre position approx. 700mm wide.

• Animal Restrictions: Goats and tall animals (over 6 feet) loaded on the top deck are not permitted in the trial

 Making the Most of the Trial

For the trial to be a success and pave the way for future access to CityLink for all livestock vehicles, drivers are urged to plan their journeys carefully. Compliance with the restrictions is non-negotiable, and safety must remain a priority at all times.

Looking Ahead

This trial marks a significant step forward in modernizing livestock transportation in Victoria. By demonstrating responsibility and adherence to the rules, the industry can work toward broader access to CityLink and other key road networks, benefiting both drivers and livestock alike.

Important Contact Details in the event of serious accident:  

Livestock Assist Ph: 1800 4 25782

To assist with transit times check travel conditions before starting your journey 

To view real-time traffic conditions across Melbourne’s toll
road network access: 

• Following @TransurbanLinkt
  on Facebook for the latest on toll roads including major incidents, events and roadworks. 

• Read about upcoming roadworks on the Linkt website. 

• Subscribing for real-time road incident and event notifications on the Linkt app. 

• Reading VMS signage on the roads. 

We expect this change will improve route efficiency, and ensure livestock are able to be transported in a safe and healthy
manner. We are excited to see how this trial unfolds and look forward to
continuing our collaboration with government and industry stakeholders to
improve road access for livestock vehicles.

For further updates or questions about the trial, please contact LRTAV office.