FAQs
Using the tunnel
- What should I do if I breakdown or have an accident in the tunnel?
- If you suspect your vehicle is malfunctioning do not enter the tunnel.
- If possible drive out of the tunnel. If not possible, pull over to a breakdown bay or the side of the lane.
- Stay in your vehicle unless otherwise advised.
- Switch on your hazard lights.
- Wait for help to arrive.
- You will be monitored by cameras and assistance will be sent to tow your vehicle.
- If you need to call for help, it is preferred that you use the emergency phones as they will automatically identify your location within the tunnel. The tunnel control room will contact emergency services if necessary.
- Where are the emergency phones located?
- There are emergency phones located at regular intervals along the motorway and within the tunnels . The phones will connect you directly to the M5 East Motorway control centre.
- When should the emergency exits be used?
- There are 32 emergency cross passages located at 120 metre spacings within the main tunnel and 4 cross passages within the Cooks River Tunnel. The cross passages allow motorists to cross to other carriageway in the event of an emergency within the tunnel. There are also emergency exits to points outside of the motorway. These include an emergency exit stairwell at the end of the Princes Highway exit ramp to Arncliffe Street, Arncliffe; emergency escape stairwell near Marsh Street sub station to M5 East Motorway Control Centre car park; and emergency escape stairwells on both carriageways of the General Holmes Drive viaduct to Kyeemagh Avenue, Mascot. These are emergency pedestrian exits only and should only be used when directed by emergency personnel or by the motorway control centre staff.
- What should I do if I am caught in traffic?
- Turn on your radio – emergency broadcasts may be transmitted and will cut into your radio station.
- If instructed, turn off your engine. Idling for extended periods produces higher levels of pollutants.
- Can I use the tunnel if I have a respiratory condition?
- Some people with asthma or other respiratory conditions can be sensitive to air quality. We recommend closing the vehicle’s windows and setting the air conditioning to re-circulate.
- Can pedestrians and cyclists use the tunnel?
- No, it is not safe for pedestrians and cyclists to use the tunnel.
- What is the speed limit inside the tunnel?
- The maximum speed limit is 80 km/h.
- Are there speed cameras inside the tunnel?
- Yes, there are speed cameras located inside the tunnel in both directions of travel.
Tunnel closures and maintenance
- How will I know if the tunnel is closed?
- The tunnel is closed for regular maintenance five nights per month. These closures will be posted on this website and notified on electronic signage along the motorway prior to the closures. Click here, to register to receive email notifications advising of scheduled maintenance closures?
- The tunnel may be closed at short notice due to unplanned incidents such as major breakdowns or accidents. Motorists are advised to be aware of electronic signage along the major roads and motorways that feed onto the motorway. Traffic conditions and incidents are reported on many major Sydney radio stations.
- What route do I take if the tunnel is closed?
- A sign-posted route, called the D5, is recommended as the alternative route to use when the tunnel is closed. Click here, to see a map of the D5 route.
Air quality in the tunnel
- Where can I find information about how air quality is managed and monitored?
Further information about air quality in and around the M5 East Tunnel can be found on the Roads and Maritime Services website, click here.