Work is set to start on a new northern entrance that will make Ballarat Station more accessible for all transport users.
Crews are preparing to build an accessible ramp, new stairs, and an automatic swing door, which will help people move between the platforms, the bus interchange and the northern car park to more easily get around the station precinct.
This work also includes planting more than 50 native flowering shrubs, plants and grasses to create a welcoming entrance centrally connected to other destinations in the station precinct, such as the bus interchange and multi-level car park.
A new accessible pedestrian overpass with lift and stair access to both platforms will also be built as part of the project.
These improvements will make it easier and safer for all commuters to cross between the platforms inside the station.
People with disability, and those carrying luggage or pushing a pram will no longer need to leave the station to cross the rail line via Lydiard Street.
The new overpass and steel structures for the lifts and stairs will be installed later in the year, ahead of the overpass opening in 2026.
Final designs for the station upgrade were released last year following community feedback and approval by Heritage Victoria.
The designs celebrate the heritage of the station by creating open belvedere balconies with glass balustrades in the lift landings to provide scenic views of the clock tower and train hall.
Almost 40 million train and coach trips have been taken on the V/Line network, and more than $114 million saved by passengers since the regional fare cap was introduced in March 2023.
Spend and win in Ballarat
To support traders in the station precinct during works, we are offering locals the chance to take part in a spend and win competition.
From Monday, 2 June, spending $10 or more at businesses in the station precinct will give you the opportunity to enter into the draw to win a prize voucher from participating local traders.
To find out more about how you can enter and go into the draws, visit our Ballarat spend and win page.