Using accessible stops

Melbourne's tram network has a growing number of accessible stops, each built to suit the environment around it and to consider the needs of tram passengers, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Each stop has its own unique characteristics.

Centre Island Platform Stop

A Centre Island Platform stop is located in the centre of the road. Trams approach the stop on the left side of the platform and passengers get off and on from the right hand side of the tram.

As the doors open on the opposite side to a 'normal' stop it is important for passengers not to stand in the off-side stepwell of a tram when entering these stops as it can interfere with the operation of the doors.

Some centre island stops are limited to trams only, while some also allow road traffic to pass through when trams are not using it.

Where traffic is permitted to pass along the tracks at a centre island platform stop (such as in High Street, Westgarth on Route 86) the road rules for driving with trams apply at all times, and both motorists and cyclists must stop at the rear of the tram when it stops at the platform.

Examples: Flinders Street/Swanston Street, Melbourne University (above)

Easy Access Stop

Easy Access Stops provide level access to low floor trams while also allowing road traffic to operate separate from tram tracks.

Cars and cyclists must stop when a tram enters the stop, but passengers should wait clear of the roadway until the tram has stopped and opened its doors.

Example: Harold Street/Danks Street, Middle Park (above), Macarthur Street/Spring Street, Melbourne

Kerb Extension Stop

A Kerb Extension Stop allows level access for tram passengers, but also a path for cyclists or motorists.

In addition to tram passengers, cyclists may also use designated cycle path on the stop.  In some locations cars are permitted to drive over the raised area of the Kerb Extension Stop, but must stop when a tram stops and give way to passengers getting on and off the tram..

Pedestrians should wait behind the yellow line until the tram has arrived and its doors have opened.

Cyclists should slow down upon entering a Kerb Extension Stop, and then stop behind trams. After the trams have closed their doors and started to move cyclists can continue but should be aware of pedestrians who might be in their path.

In Swanston Street, Melbourne - motor vehicles are not permitted to travel across the Kerb Extension Stops.

Example: Bourke Street/Swanston Street (Above), Northcote Town Hall

Platform Stop

A Platform Stop provides level access to low floor trams. Unlike a Central Island Platform Stop, the trams open their doors on the left side and there is a dedicated platform for each direction of travel.

Passengers should stand behind the yellow line until the tram has arrived at the stop and opened its doors.

Cars and cyclists are not permitted to follow the tram tracks at Platform Stops.  For pedestrians - crossing between the two platforms is prohibited other than at the designated crossings provided.

Example: Federation Square, St Kilda Road/Commercial Road (above)

For more information visit our Making your accessible journey page or call PTV on 1800 800 007 (6am - midnight daily).