Wednesday 26 February 2025
The latest infrastructure funding announcement between the Allan and Albanese Labor Governments fails to address the real needs of regional Victorians, despite the Prime Minister’s claim that “this money is ready, right now, to fix roads in need of repair”.
While Melbourne’s suburbs receive much-needed road upgrades, Labor at both levels of government has again turned its back on regional Victoria, where crumbling roads, dangerous intersections, and failing infrastructure continue to cost Victorian motorists and put lives at risk.
Shadow Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Danny O’Brien, said that despite the Allan Labor Government boasting about its spending, regional roads remain in a shocking state, with countless communities left waiting for critical upgrades.
“Labor’s so-called ‘record investment’ clearly isn’t reaching the places that need it most. Regional Victorians deserve safe roads just as much as those in Melbourne’s suburbs, yet they continue to be treated as second-class citizens by this government,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The Victorian Government’s neglect of our regional road network has resulted in potholes, deteriorating road surfaces, and unsafe conditions for motorists. The latest funding announcement once again ignores the pressing need to fix regional roads that are lifelines for communities, agriculture, and tourism.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage our roads and Victorians are paying the price.”
Mr O’Brien also questioned where the billions of dollars allocated to road maintenance had actually gone.
“Melissa Horne claims that ‘record investment’ is being spent, yet motorists across the state are asking the same question – where? Instead of spin, the Allan Labor Government must be transparent about where these funds are being directed and why regional Victorians continue to be ignored,” said Mr O’Brien.
“Fixing regional roads isn’t just about maintenance – it’s about road safety, productivity, and ensuring communities aren’t left behind.”
The Nationals and Liberals will continue to push for fair investment in regional roads to ensure all Victorians, no matter where they live, have the safe and reliable infrastructure they deserve.
Media contact: Dominic McDermott 0448 163 006 dominic.mcdermott@opposition.vic.gov.au
