E-Class tram

Improving tram accessibility

Victoria has an obligation under the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) to significantly increase the number of level access stops and low-floor trams on the network over time.

Accessibility, safety and tram reliability will be improved with the introduction of more level access stops across the network.

Currently, more than 390 tram stops on the network provide level access.

The Accessible Public Transport in Victoria Action Plan (2013-17) provides the actions and milestones to meet DDA compliance. In accordance with the national Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport Guidelines 2004, prioritisation will occur to maximise accessibility on highly patronised routes.

More information

For more information, see Accessible trams.

Level access tram stops

Melbourne’s tram stops are being upgraded to improve tram accessibility. A variety of level access tram stop designs have been developed to suit various road conditions and these are currently being rolled out across the network. The new level access tram stops provide safer waiting areas and comply with the DDA requirements.

Currently more than 390 of the 1761 tram stops in Melbourne have been upgraded.

Upcoming works

Upgrades are planned for the following stops in 2015:

  • Toorak Terminus - for more info click here (link opens in new window).
  • Victoria Street, Richmond - for more info click here(link opens in new window).
  • Wellington Parade between Powlett Street and Clarendon Street, East Melbourne - for more info click here(link opens in new window).

Types of level access stops

Platform stop

Platform stops are raised pairs of stops located in the middle of a road

Platform stops are raised and located in the middle of a road alongside the tram tracks.

Central island platform stop

Centre-island platform stop is a raised area between the tram tracks

A central island platform stop is a raised platform located in the middle of a road between the tram tracks.

Easy access stop (EAS)

An easy access Stop is located on the side of the road

An easy access stop is located in the kerbside lane. The road pavement in the kerbside lane is raised to allow passengers level access from the footpath waiting area across the road to the tram.

Kerb extension stop

A kerb extension stop is located on the side of the road

A kerb extension stop extends from the footpath out to the tram tracks. Some kerb extension stops include a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.