Wombat Crossings - Melbourne Street
Project status
Completed
Latest project update - September 2026
Construction of two new raised pedestrian crossings on Melbourne Street has been completed, marking the completion of Stage 1 of the Melbourne Street Revitalisation Project.
The new crossings, located at the eastern and western ends of Melbourne Street, are now open for use following the completion of civil works, landscaping and new street lighting. The crossings improve pedestrian safety and accessibility along Melbourne Street and represent the first stage of improvements being delivered as part of the broader revitalisation of the precinct.
A 40 km/h speed limit has also been introduced along the full length of Melbourne Street. The reduced speed limit complements the new crossings and supports a safer and more accessible environment for pedestrians and other road users.
Planning for Stage 2 of the Melbourne Street Revitalisation Project is continuing. Feedback received through the recent concept design consultation is being considered as the design and delivery approach for the next stage progresses.
This stage was supported by a $600,000 contribution through the Australian Government's National Road Safety Program, delivered in partnership with the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport.
About the project
The City of Adelaide delivered new raised pedestrian (wombat) crossings on Melbourne Street to improve safety, accessibility and movement for people walking along and across the street.
The crossings form part of broader streetscape improvements and align with earlier community feedback and the Melbourne Street Master Plan, which identified a need for safer pedestrian connections and a more walkable main street.
The Government of South Australia, through the National Road Safety Program, has provided a $600,000 contribution for the construction of wombat crossings at both the eastern and western ends of Melbourne Street.
What's being delivered
Two raised pedestrian (wombat) crossings on both ends of Melbourne Street located at the:
- Eastern end of Melbourne Street, near the Grand Apartments
- Western end near Ronald McDonald House
Wombat crossings are raised zebra crossings, typically built to the same level as the footpath, designed to slow traffic and make it easier and safer for people to cross.
Melbourne Street is a key main street for North Adelaide, used by residents, businesses, visitors and people accessing nearby health services.
Previous engagement and planning identified:
- A need for improved pedestrian safety
- Better accessibility across the street
- Opportunities to support local businesses and street activity
These works are part of the broader Melbourne Street Revitalisation and will improve safety, accessibility and connectivity for everyone. To learn more about the overall project, including the long-term vision, concept designs and latest updates, visit the Melbourne Street Revitalisation project page.
What we heard from the community
Community engagement was undertaken from 18 October to 15 November 2023, with feedback collected through an online survey and other channels.
Key themes
- Strong overall support for wombat crossings to improve pedestrian safety and access
- Strong support for the western crossing near Ronald McDonald House, particularly due to the needs of families, patients and staff
- General support for both crossings, with some preference for prioritising the western location
- Feedback from cyclists highlighting the need to consider bike safety and movement through the design
- Interest in broader improvements, including lower speed limits and enhanced streetscape
The community also recognised the potential for crossings to increase foot traffic and support local businesses.
How the crossings will improve the street
The new crossings will:
- Make it easier and safer for people to cross Melbourne Street
- Improve access for people with mobility needs, including families, older people and people with disability
- Encourage slower vehicle speeds
- Support a more active and connected main street environment
- Contribute to a more attractive streetscape with landscaping and upgrades