Madeleine Veale is a council environment officer so taking the train to work between North Geelong and Werribee each day aligns with her desire to live more sustainably.

But altruism isn't her only motive. The half-hour V/Line commute is also quicker and more pleasant than a peak-hour drive on the Princes Freeway.

Acting Premier James Merlino told reporters commuters had "every right" to be frustrated and annoyed. Credit:Joe Armao

"I can work, I can read, I can do whatever on the train, because I don't need to concentrate on the roads," Ms Veale said.

But this time next month she doesn't know how she will get to her job at Wyndham City Council and fears big impending changes to the timetable mean she will be driving after all.