Saturday Commute: Smooth Runs Expected Despite Ongoing Mount Ousley Interchange Work

Morning Traffic Outlook for Saturday, 31 January 2026

Wollongong commuters can expect a relatively smooth start to the final day of January, though localized construction activity will continue to influence travel times. While no major emergency incidents have been reported across the Illawarra this morning, the ongoing Mount Ousley Interchange project remains the primary focus for those navigating the region's main arteries.

Mount Ousley Interchange: Saturday Work Schedule

Construction crews are active today at the base of Mount Ousley as work on the $390 million interchange project ramps up for the new year. Motorists should be aware that standard Saturday work hours for this project are 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. During this window, there may be an increase in heavy vehicle movements as soil and materials are transported between work sites near the M1 Princes Motorway and University Avenue.

• Speed Limits: Reduced speed limits of 40km/h and 60km/h remain in effect through the construction zones for the safety of workers and motorists.
• Delays: Commuters should allow an additional five minutes when travelling through the interchange area due to potential intermittent lane shifts.

Public Transport and Rail Alerts

For those utilizing the South Coast Line, train services are currently scheduled to run to a normal Saturday timetable between Bomaderry, Wollongong, and Sydney. Unlike several other major lines in the Sydney network today, the South Coast Line is free from major trackwork maintenance within the Illawarra region.

However, travelers heading into the Sydney CBD should be cautious. Planned trackwork is taking place across several metropolitan lines today, including the T1 North Shore, T8 Airport & South, and T9 Northern lines. If your Saturday plans involve transferring at Wolli Creek or Central, please check the latest transport updates, as replacement buses are in operation on portions of the connecting Sydney network.

Local Event Traffic and Looking Ahead

Increased local traffic is anticipated around the Wollongong Botanic Garden on Murphy’s Avenue this evening for the Sunset Cinema. Additionally, the Wollongong Library on Burelli Street is hosting the Voices of Insight exhibition, which may lead to higher demand for street parking in the CBD throughout the day.

Importantly, transport authorities have issued a significant heads-up for next weekend. A major closure of Mount Ousley Road between the M1 Motorway and Gaynor Avenue is scheduled to begin at 6:00 am on Saturday, 7 February. While today remains open, residents are encouraged to begin planning alternative routes via Memorial Drive or the Princes Highway in anticipation of those upcoming disruptions.