Department of Transport and Planning

As the saying goes, one man’s retired V/Line train is another man’s freight hauler. With V/Line’s classic fleet making way for more modern VLocity trains, 10 N-Class locomotives have been leased to Southern Shorthaul Railroad Pty Ltd. to help meet the growing demand for grain and intermodal freight transport. Adding more locomotives to the freight network will boost capacity, improve efficiency, and enable longer freight services across the network.

Last week, Southern Cross Station became the focal point for our Passenger Safety campaign. The campaign’s messages were brought to life on a big installation calling out unacceptable behaviours on public transport. Our team was there handing out cards with the STOPIT number: 0499 455 455 – reminding passengers to save it in their phones. If you feel uncomfortable, frightened or threatened, text STOPIT to report it discreetly. 💬🛑 It’s a small action that helps make public transport safer for everyone. Find out more at https://lnkd.in/gbkMcuZj The Taboo Group

We're introducing the Great Design Fast Track – a new streamlined planning pathway that rewards well-designed, sustainable housing in Victoria. What does this mean? ✅ Faster planning approvals for high-quality townhouse and apartment developments (8+ dwellings, 2 – 8 storeys)   ✅ Encouraging better design and sustainability in our communities   ✅ Qualifying assessments by the Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA) This initiative helps streamline the approval for well-designed homes, to meet the needs of Victorians. Have a favourite building that showcases great design? Nominate it for the state design book – a collection of top projects to inspire Victoria’s future housing. Find out more at https://lnkd.in/gZk49Ubg Image: Clare Cousins Architects. Photography: Tom Ross

The Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct (FBIP) was showcased at the Avalon Airshow last week. In collaboration with University of Melbourne, our team highlighted the precinct’s potential for defence-related investment, located just 3km from Melbourne's CBD. FBIP is transforming the former General Motors Holden site into a 32-hectare hub for advanced manufacturing, engineering, and design. With the University of Melbourne’s new Engineering and Design Campus set to be at its core, FBIP offers significant opportunities in defence, transport, and clean energy. We’re inviting potential partners to explore how they can contribute to this transformative project. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/4iSxnRs.

From today, regulations have been enacted allowing Victorian drivers to show their digital licence as proof of holding a valid driver's licence if asked by Victoria Police or other authorised officers. A digital licence is now just as valid as a plastic licence – offering Victorians a quick, easy, and secure way to have their licence on hand. While going digital is optional, plastic cards will continue to be issued and accepted for identification and proof of age. Find out more at: https://bit.ly/4aBZPTM or https://bit.ly/3QVqvbb.

Local ports are vital to businesses and communities, supporting commercial fishing, marine industries, recreation, and tourism. We're seeking feedback on proposed updates to the regulations that guide the management of Victoria’s local ports. These updates will help ensure they continue to operate effectively and efficiently into the future. Have your say by completing our survey or submitting feedback via https://lnkd.in/ePvd8vKh

We spoke to thousands of people from across the state to help shape Plan for Victoria! Working with cultural ambassadors, we heard from culturally and linguistically diverse communities about what matters most - affordable homes near transport, schools, and parks, plus more jobs in regional areas. Their insights are shaping a plan by Victorians, for Victorians, replacing Plan Melbourne 2017–2050 to create vibrant, liveable, and sustainable communities. Watch the video to learn more!

Young Victorians will be the most impacted by long-term planning decisions, so ensuring their voices shaped the Plan for Victoria was a key priority. Alongside YLab, and through a co-design approach, we empowered young people to engage with their social groups and share their perspectives. From the need for more affordable and diverse housing to safer public transport—especially for young women, LGBTQIA+ young people, First Peoples young people, and culturally diverse communities—their insights are shaping a plan for a fairer, more inclusive future. Watch the video to hear directly from them!

We're partnering with Yarra Trams and the City of Melbourne for the next site of our Transporting Arts Pilot Program. We're inviting artists in Victoria to submit creative design artwork to be featured at Tram Stop 7 Queen Vic Market/Elizabeth St. Apply now at https://lnkd.in/gXBwNaEE. Applications close 20 April.

Everyone has the right to feel safe on public transport. Our new Passenger Safety campaign with Victoria Police launched today, educating, empowering and encouraging passengers to take action. 🔹 We’re raising awareness of unwanted sexual and anti-social behaviours on public transport. 🔹 We’re encouraging bystanders and those most vulnerable - including women, girls, LGBTIQA+ and multicultural communities - to report incidents to Victoria Police’s STOPIT service. 🔹 We’re working to improve perceptions of safety across the network. 📲 If you experience or witness unwanted behaviour on public transport, text STOPIT to 0499 455 455. NOTE: STOPIT is not monitored live. More information at ptv.vic.gov.au/stopit.