Easter Sunday: Free Metro Travel and Major Road Closures Affecting Hobart Commuters

Commuter Outlook for Sunday, 5 April 2026

As Hobart marks Easter Sunday, commuters and holiday travelers should be aware of significant changes to public transport schedules, a major shift in timekeeping, and ongoing infrastructure projects that will impact travel across the metropolitan area. Whether you are heading to church services, family gatherings, or the local markets, planning ahead is essential for a smooth journey today.

Standard Time Resumes

A critical reminder for all early-morning commuters: Daylight Saving Time officially ended at 3:00 am this morning. Clocks have been turned back by one hour, returning Tasmania to Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). Please ensure your devices have updated to avoid arriving an hour early for scheduled transport or community events.

Public Transport: Free Metro Services

In a significant boost for holiday travelers, Metro Tasmania has confirmed that all bus services are currently free of charge. This cost-of-living initiative is in effect until July 1, meaning passengers do not need to tap their GreenCards or pay a fare when boarding. However, because today is Easter Sunday, all services are operating on a Sunday/Public Holiday Timetable. Frequency will be reduced compared to standard weekdays, and some late-night services may not be available.

Major Road Closures and Traffic Alerts

Several high-impact roadworks remain active today, requiring detours for those traveling through the Queens Domain and the Eastern Shore:

• McVilly Drive (Queens Domain): This thoroughfare remains closed 24/7 between Davies Avenue and the Tasman Highway interchange. The closure is necessary for the ongoing installation of a major sewer main and is expected to remain in place until mid-April. Access to the Intercity Cycleway is also restricted in this vicinity.
• Rosny Esplanade: On the Eastern Shore, sections of Rosny Esplanade are closed 24/7 between Kellatie Road and Ninda Street. This long-term project has also resulted in the temporary relocation of several bus stops in the Rosny area.
• CBD Night Works: While daytime traffic through the city center is mostly clear, be advised that the intersection of Liverpool Street and Murray Street is subject to night-time closures from 6:00 pm. If you are traveling through the CBD this evening, expect diversions as crews continue paving and line-marking for new pedestrian crossings.

Local Event Traffic

The Farm Gate Market is active today on Bathurst Street. Motorists should expect localized congestion and limited parking between Elizabeth and Murray Streets until approximately 2:00 pm. Drivers are encouraged to utilize the Melville Street or Argyle Street car parks to avoid delays in the immediate market zone.

With increased holiday traffic on the Tasman and Brooker Highways, please maintain safe following distances and adhere to all posted speed limits in work zones.