We’re upgrading the Eastern Freeway with new express lanes, new Eastern Busway, smart technology and a connection to North East Link – slashing travel times and improving travel in Melbourne’s east.

What we're doing

From April 2026, we'll begin setting up a safe construction area in Frank Sedgman Reserve to support works on the Eastern Freeway Upgrades. We'll create space to build new freeway lanes and retaining walls and upgrade noise walls.

To prepare the area for future upgrades, we'll:

• install temporary fencing to secure works areas
• mark and protect trees to be retained
• inspect trees for wildlife and safely relocate animals under the supervision of an ecologist
• trim and remove selected trees and vegetation next to the freeway and in Frank Sedgman Reserve
• remove the existing noise wall on the freeway shoulder near Tram Road
• build construction access from the freeway into Frank Sedgman Reserve
• build hardstand areas to support heavy machinery
• install new drainage.

Where and when

We'll mostly work during the day, however some activities may be required at night, including on the freeway. We'll inform residents about planned night works ahead of time.

What to expect

• Construction vehicles, machinery, equipment and workers in the area
• Overnight lane closures and traffic management on the freeway
• Medium to high levels of noise, dust and vibration from machinery at times
• Use of directional lighting when working at night
• Visual changes due to tree and noise wall removal
• Intermittent disruptions on local footpaths with access maintained under traffic management
• Traffic controllers and signage to guide cyclists and pedestrians around our works.

To stay safe, please follow all instructions on signage and follow the direction of traffic controllers. We appreciate your patience and understanding throughout these works.

Managing impacts

We carefully manage our works in line with the project's strict environmental performance requirements including:

• working during the day, where possible
• installing temporary fencing and barriers to create safe work areas
• scheduling noisier works early in the evening, where possible
• monitoring noise and vibration levels with real time monitoring
• minimising light spill with targeted lighting
• preventing dust and water runoff with environmental barriers
• using water carts and street sweepers to manage dirt on local roads where required.

Keeping in touch

We’ll be out talking to nearby residents and businesses about these works in more detail, including how we’ll manage local impacts. If you have any questions now, please contact the 24/7 Contact Centre on 1800 105 105.

Schedule is subject to change. Visit Disruptions for schedule changes.

If you need assistance due to a hearing or speech impairment, visit relayservice.gov.au.  For languages other than English please call 9209 0147.

For more information call 1800 105 105 or email contact@bigbuild.vic.gov.au.