Truck drivers who regularly travel through Melbourne’s north-eastern freight corridors are being invited to share their views on the upcoming North East Link, with participants offered a $100 gift card for their time.
The research is being conducted by market research firm EY Sweeney on behalf of the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority, as part of efforts to better understand how heavy vehicle drivers may use the new road network once it opens.
What the Research Is About
Researchers are seeking feedback from Victorian-based truck drivers who currently travel through Melbourne’s north-east arterial routes several times a week.
The goal of the research is to better understand:
- Whether drivers are likely to use the North East Link once it opens
- What toll pricing expectations truck drivers may have
- What features would make the new route attractive for freight operators
Insights gathered from drivers will help shape decisions around tolling, branding, communication, and overall planning for the project.
What Participation Involves
Drivers who take part will be asked to join a 60-minute online interview via Microsoft Teams, scheduled at a time that suits them.
As a thank-you for their participation, drivers will receive a $100 gift card.
Researchers have emphasised that all interviews will remain confidential and will be conducted by experienced researchers in accordance with Australian privacy laws.
Truck drivers interested in participating can contact the research team directly for more information.
About the North East Link
The North East Link is one of Victoria’s largest infrastructure projects and represents a $26.1 billion investment in Melbourne’s transport network.
The project includes:
- A 10km toll road
- 6.5km of twin tunnels connecting the Eastern Freeway to the M80 Ring Road
- Major freeway upgrades across Melbourne’s north-east
Once completed, the project will effectively close a long-missing freeway connection within Melbourne’s road network.
What It Could Mean for Truck Drivers
When the North East Link opens, it is expected to:
- Remove around 15,000 trucks per day from local roads
- Reduce travel times between Melbourne’s east and outer north by up to 35 minutes
- Improve freight efficiency and network connectivity
Construction is already underway, with tunnelling and freeway upgrade works currently progressing between Bulleen and Watsonia.
The full project is scheduled to open in 2028, alongside upgrades to the Eastern Freeway and the M80 Ring Road.
Why Driver Feedback Matters
Large infrastructure projects often have a significant impact on freight movement, route planning, and operating costs for transport businesses.
Getting direct feedback from drivers helps planners understand real-world behaviour, preferences, and challenges faced on the road every day.
At Logbook Checker, we always encourage drivers to participate in opportunities like this where their experience can help shape future transport infrastructure and improve freight routes across the network.