After more than two years of closure, Melbourne’s historic Degraves Street Subway at Flinders Street Station has finally reopened, marking a major milestone for commuters and heritage lovers alike.
The underpass, which has linked passengers to platforms and Degraves Street since the 1950s, had been closed due to Metro Tunnel construction but is now back in service with significant upgrades.
The restoration effort focused on both modernising the space and preserving its historic charm. Key improvements include the installation of six new lifts, providing step-free access between platforms for the first time in the station’s history.
If you do head down there though, it doesn’t look like much has changed: the subway has retained most of its original look, including those rather infamous “DO NOT SPIT” signs (which have heritage protection)
New lighting, ventilation, fire and security systems, and improved drainage have been implemented to enhance safety and usability. Heritage features such as the original tile work have also been carefully restored.
While the subway is now open for passengers moving between platforms, direct access to Degraves Street remains closed as the heritage-listed Campbell Arcade undergoes further restoration. The arcade is expected to reopen by mid-2025, welcoming back its original tenants.
Once the Metro Tunnel is completed, the subway will also connect to the new Town Hall Station, allowing seamless transfers between the Metro Tunnel and City Loop services without the need to tap on and off.
