Hi

I have got a job which will probably be based in Broadmeadows in the northern suburbs.

We are looking at different areas to live in, but don't want to commute too far.
I am thinking of Hawthorn or Richmond areas as an example.
I have checked public transport and it takes about 55 minutes, which is fine. But does anyone know how long it would take to drive? What would be the best route? And if its the west gate bridge, would the traffic be horrendous heading north?

Thanks

Try looking around Epping. Mill Park, Craigieburn if you want an easier commute.

If you're thinking West of the City, you don't go over the Westgate to get to Broadmeadows, you come off just before at the Boundary Rd exit (Western Ringroad) BUT be warned the Ringroad can be a bitch at peak time, going North (like tonight - hour and half to do 35k's, stop/ start traffic all the way - especially the Calder Jctn and the Hume Jctn (this is the one you'd need for Broadmeadows but you should be OK as you'll be going against the "main" flow heading in to the city)

Ha ha yes I'm sure that would be easier!
I want to be relatively close to the CBD as my partner works in Southbank.
I'm not too bothered about the travelling. As long as its not 90 mins like you experience!

Does anybody know of a website which shows commuting times? Or a route planner?

http://www.viclink.com.au/

http://maps.google.com.au/

Thanks. Sorry I wasn't clear, I meant by car.

http://mobiletraffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/

check what's listed here at the time you would be travelling.

it gives the present conditions.

Google will tell you the time & distance by car, if you put in both ends of the journey.

Note, the times take no notice of rush hours

Thanks guys

Essendon isn't a bad suburb to consider as an option - easy to drive to Broady (what the locals call it) and easy to get to Southbank on the train. Thinking about it, you can get the train to Broady too if you like.

Surrounding suburbs to consider - Ascot Vale, Pascoe Vale, Strathmore, Maribyrnong . . .