SMS Disruption Alerts

Keeping our neighbours informed

Metro Trains uses SMS alerts to notify properties near the railway line of disruptive works. SMS help us to keep our neighbours effectively informed in a timely way when we undertake planned maintenance and renewal works and be able to update you when things may change.

Why has Metro Trains made the decision to transition to SMS?

Metro Trains trialled the use of SMS as an alternative to standard physical letters in December 2023 and March 2024. The trial was positively received with feedback from residents and traders indicating that SMS is the preferred method of communication. The use of SMS notifications allows us to quickly share any changes to planned works.

How do we sign up to receive SMS alerts?

Signing up to the SMS alerts is simple. By texting the name of your closest station to 0475 109 470, you will be added to the list for that location and be sent alerts when we’re undertaking planned maintenance and renewal works in your area.
For example, if Footscray Station is your closest station, simply text “Footscray” to 0475 109 470 and you will be added to that list.

I live between two stations, can I sign up to more than one location?

Yes, if you live next to a number of stations, we highly encourage residents to sign up to more than one locations.

How will I know if I have correctly signed up?

You will receive a response to your SMS after you have subscribed.

What happens if residents and traders choose not to sign up?

Metro Trains no longer provides physical notices. The only way for residents and traders to receive advance notice of works will be by subscribing to the SMS alerts. Night works will continue to be published on Metro’s planned works page.

Will I always receive notification of planned works?

We endeavour to provide advance notice to residents when we have planned maintenance and renewal works.
Emergency works can occur on the network with short notice to ensure the rail network remains safe, reliable and operable. In some cases, this means we will not have an opportunity to notify residents.

Can residents and traders opt-out of the SMS service?

Yes, residents can text ‘STOP’ to 0475 109 470 to unsubscribe from future SMS updates.
To ensure that the use of SMS is compliant with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic), we will never add a person’s contact details our database without their consent.
Collection of personal information will be in accordance with the Privacy Policies of Metro Trains Melbourne here and Sinch MessageMedia https://messagemedia.com/au/legal/privacy-policy/

Will the SMS alerts tell me when buses are replacing trains?

No, the SMS alerts are aimed at informing residents and traders of noisy works near their properties due to maintenance and renewal works.
Passengers are encouraged to plan their journey ahead of time at transport.vic.gov.au or download the PTV Journey Planner app.

Who can I contact about lodging feedback about works in my area?

You can contact Transport Victoria with feedback via transport.vic.gov.au or 1800 800 007 (6am – midnight and all night Friday & Saturday. Alternatively, you can lodge your feedback via the online form at metrotrains.com.au/customer-feedback/