Ms Kosky said from mid next year, Bourke Street tram route 86 (Bundoora RMIT-Docklands) would be extended to the north-west of Docklands (Waterfront City), creating a direct transport link between Southern Cross Station and Docklands Drive.

“We said improving public transport was among our top priorities and we continue to deliver,” Ms Kosky said.

“The Dockland’s north-west precinct is expected to generate up to 75,000 visitor trips per day once Waterfront City, New Quay, Central City Studios and Southern Star Observation Wheel are developed next year.

“Linking our major transport hub, Southern Cross Station, to the developing north-west Docklands precinct will be a great asset for Melburnians, Victorians and visitors to the city.

Ms Kosky said the changes were the next step in the Brumby Government’s commitment to meet Melbourne’s growing and changing transport needs.

“In peak periods there will be a tram service every four minutes and every six minutes during off-peaks times and core times at weekends,” she said.

“This extension of route 86 to Docklands Drive (Waterfront City) will be convenient for patrons attending sports matches and concerts at Telstra Dome and for people heading to restaurants and attractions at NewQuay and Waterfront City.”

Ms Kosky said La Trobe Street tram route 30, which currently travels to NewQuay in Docklands (from St Vincent’s Plaza) during daytime off peak periods, would now terminate at Spencer Street.

“As the Docklands precinct evolves in 2008 and beyond, tram patronage will be monitored and adjusted in line with the demand,” she said.

The changes to tram services are being introduced ahead of the opening of the Southern Star Observation Wheel later next year.