The Victorian government’s livestock truck tunnel trial is officially underway in Melbourne, with livestock trucks able to use CityLink tunnels as part of a 12-month trial.
From January 1, livestock trucks have gained access to the Burnley and Domain tunnels in Melbourne’s CityLink for the entirety of 2025.
With the trial seeing the state government partner with toll road operator Transurban and the freight industry, the trial is helping take up to 600 trucks off city streets each week.
The change means large livestock trucks no longer have to rely on travelling on city streets such as City Road, Power Street, Olympic Boulevard and Hoddle Street.
Previously, livestock trucks had been banned from the tunnels due to low-clearance infrastructure, but recent upgrades raising the overhead infrastructure to a safe height means these trucks can now pass through without posing risks to the animals.
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To support the trial, additional signage and road markings will be added on arterial roads, helping livestock truck drivers navigate the busy city freeways more easily.
The Livestock and Rural Transporters Association Victoria (LRTAV) has welcomed the new 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,” the LRTAV says.
“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.”
The LRTAV says the trial improves animal welfare through less disruptive journeys, enhances efficiency and reduces driver stress.
To allow the trial to be successful, trial restrictions are in place, including overheight warning lights, effluent tank management requirements, catwalk requirements and animal restrictions.
“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,” the LRTAV says.
“This trial marks a significant step forward in modernising 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.”
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