Buses to replace trains as V/Line staff take protected industrial action

But travellers should still plan for delays, with V/Line suggesting people allow up to an hour more for their journey.

Trains will not run for a full day on each of the lines in the regional rail network between December 11 - 20.

The Bendigo, Swan Hill and Echuca lines will be the first affected, with no trains running on Wednesday.

Trains will not run on the Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough lines the following day.

V/Line has planned for coaches to replace trains, but asked that people allow up to an extra 60 minutes.

"We will do everything possible to minimise the impact of the industrial action, to help our passengers get where they need to go during the festive season," V/Line said.

In addition to days when trains wouldn't run, the planned industrial action was also expected to result in broader service delays and changes.

Train conductors and drivers will perform six minute stoppages on all trains departing from Southern Cross Station on Monday, December 16.

Bans on drivers performing day relief work are also planned between December 11 - 20.

Shutters and yardies at key locomotive yards will conduct a one hour stoppage on Friday next week.

"We will ensure passengers are given as much notice as possible of service changes," V/Line said.

The regional public transport operator said information would be communicated via its website, app, social media, and at stations.

"We would like to thank passengers for their understanding during this time," V/Line said.

The Victorian Rail, Tram and Bus Union advised of protected industrial action earlier this week amid ongoing negotiations about working conditions.

Two more meetings were planned for this week.

More than a dozen meetings have taken place since negotiations started.