Experts Assess Sinkhole’s Impact in Melbourne’s AJ Burkitt Oval

A significant sinkhole has emerged at AJ Burkitt Oval in Heidelberg, a suburb in Melbourne’s northeast. Discovered on January 6, 2026, the sinkhole has raised concerns among local residents and experts alike, particularly regarding its potential to expand further. The incident occurred near ongoing construction work for the $26 billion North East Link project, where tunnel-boring machines are currently operating.

Duncan Elliott, chief executive of VIDA Roads, the government organization overseeing the North East Link project, stated that while the tunnel-boring machines are not solely responsible for the sinkhole, they likely contributed to its formation. He emphasized the role of human activities, such as tunneling, in accelerating the emergence of sinkholes.

Experts provide insight into the geological aspects of sinkholes, noting that they are not an uncommon phenomenon. Guillermo Narsilio, an infrastructure engineering expert at Melbourne University, explained that although sinkholes can occur worldwide, they are more frequently reported in urban areas, primarily due to increased human presence and infrastructure. He noted, “As population grows and infrastructure ages, like leaking water pipes, together with changes in weather patterns and heavier rainfall, we are going to learn of more sinkhole appearances globally.”

The recent sinkhole at AJ Burkitt Oval measures several meters wide and has disrupted local sports activities. Residents in the vicinity have been warned to avoid the area until further assessments are conducted. A similar incident occurred in 2017 near the home of former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in Sydney, where a sinkhole measuring 15m by 3m and about 2m deep prompted the evacuation of four properties but caused no injuries.

Geotechnical engineering expert Francois Guillard from the University of Sydney provided further context, explaining that sinkholes form when underground cavities collapse. “When the cavity is large enough, the ceiling becomes too weak to sustain the hole underground, leading to a sudden collapse at the surface,” he noted. This collapse often occurs unnoticed until significant pressure builds up.

Sinkholes typically form due to the dissolution of soluble rocks like limestone or dolomite, which occurs over extended periods. According to Professor Narsilio, much of Australia lacks widespread soluble rock near the surface, limiting sinkhole occurrences compared to regions with abundant soluble materials.

As investigations into the sinkhole continue, authorities remain vigilant about the potential for further developments. The North East Link project, which aims to enhance Melbourne’s transport infrastructure, includes plans for 6.5 km of tunnels located 45 meters underground. Completion of this project is anticipated to alleviate traffic congestion in the metropolitan area, although the implications of the sinkhole on the timeline and safety of ongoing work remain to be seen.

In summary, the emergence of the sinkhole at AJ Burkitt Oval has sparked a combination of concern and curiosity. As geological assessments proceed, local residents and authorities will be monitoring the situation closely.