Wollongong Traffic: University Diversions Conclude and Mount Ousley Upgrades Impact Friday Commute

Commuter Alert: University Precinct Diversions End Today

Motorists navigating the Wollongong education precinct are advised that today, Friday, 10 April 2026, marks the final day of the temporary traffic changes implemented for the start of the semester. These changes, designed to manage the high volume of students and staff returning to the University of Wollongong and TAFE NSW, will remain in effect through the morning peak between 7:45 am and 9:15 am.

During this window, southbound traffic exiting the M1 Princes Motorway at University Avenue will be diverted left, requiring drivers to make a U-turn at the eastern roundabout. Motorists heading specifically for the University are being detoured via the western access route using Murphys Avenue and Robsons Road. If you are attempting to access the M1 northbound from the Keiraville or Gwynneville areas, transport officials strongly recommend using the Robsons Road entry at West Wollongong to avoid significant congestion around the precinct entrance. While bus access from University Avenue into Irvine Street remains unaffected, general traffic should expect heavy delays until the peak period concludes at 9:15 am.

Mount Ousley Interchange and M1 Lane Closures

Work continues on the major $405 million Mount Ousley Interchange project. While overnight full closures of the M1 concluded earlier this morning at 6:00 am, daytime commuters should still prepare for significant disruptions. Current roadwork conditions include:

• Reduced Speed Limits: A 60km/h or 40km/h speed limit remains in place through the construction zone for the safety of workers and motorists.
• Lane Restrictions: Expect single lane closures and intermittent stopping on the M1 Princes Motorway between Mount Ousley Road and Northfields Avenue.
• Local Road Impacts: Construction activities are affecting traffic flow on Mount Ousley Road, Irvine Street, and Northfields Avenue. Motorists near Dumfries Avenue and Falder Place may also encounter heavy vehicle movements.

Freight operators and heavy vehicle drivers are reminded that the first of the two new heavy vehicle safety ramps, located approximately 330 metres north of the old southern safety ramp, is now fully operational. The old ramp is permanently closed to allow for bridge girder installation and drainage works.

Public Transport and Rail Updates

The South Coast Line is operating on a standard Friday timetable today following the completion of late-night trackwork between Sutherland and Hurstville early this morning. While some early 4:00 am services may have seen minor adjustments, all daytime trains are running as scheduled. However, commuters are encouraged to monitor the digital display boards at North Wollongong and Wollongong stations for any residual delays caused by the ongoing freight priority upgrades near the Mount Ousley corridor. Local bus services through the University precinct will return to their standard routes this afternoon following the end of the temporary morning diversions.

Safety Reminders for the Friday Commute

With the weekend approaching and the conclusion of the university traffic management plan, motorists are urged to remain patient. The presence of new sign gantries and changed line markings near the base of Mount Ousley requires extra attention. Please follow the directions of all on-site traffic controllers and allow an additional 10 to 15 minutes of travel time if your route takes you through West Wollongong or the M1 interchange zone.