Church Street Bridge

Church Street Bridge crosses the Yarra River with three reinforced concrete arches, linking Richmond to South Yarra in Melbourne. The structure carries both road traffic and tram route 78, serving as a key crossing for vehicles and public transport.

The original iron girder structure from 1857 was engineered with side trusses as a precaution during the Crimean War period. The present concrete design replaced this earlier version and was later updated to meet growing transport needs.

The bridge displays ornamental lamp standards and decorative details bearing Victoria and Melbourne's coats of arms along its length. These design elements shape how the crossing feels and reflect the connection between the city and the wider region.

The bridge is accessible to pedestrians and cyclists and provides a direct path across the river, though caution is needed around tram traffic. Planning your crossing around tram schedules helps ensure a safe and smooth experience.

The northern span was reconstructed higher during the 1990s CityLink project to create more clearance for traffic beneath it. This adaptation allowed the structure to meet modern transport demands while keeping its historical form mostly intact.

Location: Victoria

Inception: 1923

Official opening: 1923

GPS coordinates: -37.83410,144.99700

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:20