Brisbane CBD residents and visitors will need to navigate traffic disruptions over the New Year period as Brisbane City Council prepares for the annual Lord Mayor’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display.
Changed parking conditions will be in force from 8pm on Monday 29 December through to 6am on Thursday 1 January, with road closures taking effect in the CBD on New Year’s Eve itself.
Several key CBD streets will be closed from 5pm on 31 December until 2am on 1 January. Elizabeth Street between George Street and the Elizabeth Street off-ramp will be shut to traffic, along with sections of William Street between Queen Street and Stephens Lane, and George Street between Elizabeth Street and Adelaide Street.
Buses will be accepted on George Street until 5pm, after which southbound bus access and access to Brisbane Square will be redirected via Adelaide Street between George Street and North Quay.
Changed parking restrictions will affect numerous CBD streets throughout the period, including Ann Street, Adelaide Street, Elizabeth Street, George Street and William Street. Motorists are urged to check signage carefully before parking, as temporary parking restrictions will be displayed at affected locations.
In positive news for revellers, public transport will be free from 8pm on 31 December until 5.30am on 1 January. This includes buses, ferries and trains across the network. Buses will run on a normal weekday timetable with additional services added to help people travel to and from the CBD for the celebrations.
Pedestrians should note that Victoria Bridge will not be available as a viewing point for the fireworks. Queensland Police Service will direct foot traffic off the bridge, which will be closed to pedestrians during the fireworks displays. Access to Victoria Bridge will be managed at police discretion throughout the evening.
Police, traffic controllers and signage will be positioned throughout affected areas to assist motorists, bus drivers and pedestrians. Diversion routes will be clearly marked on the day.
The fireworks displays will take place at 7.45pm and midnight across four precincts, with the event remaining free for all attendees, according to Brisbane City Council’s website.
For up-to-date public transport information, residents can visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30. Traffic updates are available at QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 19 40. General enquiries about the road closures or event can be directed to Brisbane City Council on (07) 3403 8888.
Published 18-December-2025
