Public to name Vic's new Metro stations

The names of Melbourne's five newest train stations will be put in the hands of the public.

A competition to name the new underground stations for the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project was announced on Sunday, ahead of tunnel works starting this week.

But those inspired by the British polar research ship Boaty McBoatface and hoping to submit a cheeky Station McStationface will not have much luck.

"There will be a vetting committee so we'll get sensible names," Premier Daniel Andrews said on Sunday. "But it is a great opportunity."

Names will go through a shortlisting process by a committee overseen by Metro Tunnel Authority chief executive Evan Tattersall and members representing of local government, planning heritage and indigenous sections of the community.

"We're looking for all great ideas, big bold and beautiful ideas to come forward," Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said.

Mr Andrews and Ms Allan announced the competition at a tunnel work site, where a mini boring machine will dig a 190-metre long tunnel under St Kilda Road from Albert Road to Domain Road in South Yarra to relocate a 120-year-old section of sewer.

They also awarded colouring competition winner Isaac Tham, five, with a truck for his drawing of a boring machine.

Victorians have until October 22 to submit their station name suggestions.