Minister for Public Transport Lynne Kosky said the ramps and raised platforms make getting on and off trams easier for people with a disability, older people and those with prams and shopping.

“As the new fleet of low floor trams are progressively introduced, passengers will get on and off trams even more quickly, leading to improvements in the reliability of the tram service,” Ms Kosky said.

Managing Director of Queen Victoria Market Jim Monaghan said he had been eagerly awaiting the opening of the new tram stops.

“The Market is a major destination for tourists and locals so the upgraded tram stops are a huge benefit for those visiting by tram, especially customers with shopping trolleys,” Mr Monaghan said.

The platform tram stops are part of the Brumby Government’s Think Tram program to improve tram travel times, reliability, accessibility and safety along the busiest tram routes in Melbourne.

The new stops have seating, timetable information and screens that show when the next tram will arrive.

“There will also be six passenger shelters with specially designed Queen Victoria Market decorations installed in February,” Ms Kosky said.

“Think Tram partners VicRoads and Yarra Trams designed the tram stop so people can access the stop using the pedestrian crossings at either Therry or Victoria Streets.

“This reduces the risk of pedestrian injuries as passengers can no longer step through openings in the fence and onto the road.”

A brochure including maps showing the layout of the new tram stops is available online at www.thinktram.vic.gov.au or by calling 1300 309 571.