The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has announced a commitment by a Nationals and Liberals Government to fund a business case for a new Murray River bridge near Monak.
The business case will examine the costs, benefits and risks of a second bridge crossing in the Mildura region, identifying the preferred option to improve freight movement, reduce congestion and provide a more reliable connection between Victoria and New South Wales.
Mildura currently relies on the George Chaffey Bridge as its only Murray River crossing, placing pressure on the road network and creating significant problems if the bridge is closed. As part of major freight routes connecting the region with New South Wales and South Australia, any closure can disrupt supply chains, delay freight and leave communities on both sides of the river with limited access.
Ms Benham said a second crossing near Monak would take around 1,000 trucks a day out of Mildura’s CBD, reduce heavy freight travel times by up to an hour and deliver an estimated $65 million in annual savings for trucking companies.
“Mildura needs a long-term solution to the pressure on our only river crossing, and a business case is an important first step towards finding the best option,” Ms Benham said.
“If the George Chaffey Bridge had to close, the consequences for freight, businesses and people travelling between the two sides of the river would be significant. We also need to make sure emergency services can still get where they need to go.
“A bridge near Monak would help take heavy vehicles out of the CBD, improve freight efficiency and give the region a more reliable connection across the river.”
The proposed crossing is a key part of the wider strategy for a heavy vehicle bypass and is included in the Mildura Rural City Council Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy.
Ms Benham said the commitment will also help establish the costs and practical options for a second crossing and determine the next steps towards addressing the region’s transport needs.
“Only The Nationals and Liberals in government will keep fighting for regional Victoria and the infrastructure our communities need to grow and prosper.”
