Road repair cash to double

THE region’s roads are set to receive a boost with the Federal Government’s doubling of funding in the Roads to Recovery program over the next five years.

The additional cashflow will see $41.37 million allocated for the Bendigo electorate, with City of Greater Bendigo’s funding to increase by more than $8 million to $19,764,128.

Federal Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters, said a boost for the program is integral to keeping the region’s roads fit for purpose.

“The Albanese Labor Government will significantly increase the funding delivered directly to local councils, so they can deliver projects that make our roads safer,” she said.

“Being the member for a regional electorate like Bendigo, I understand how important road safety is for our rural and regional communities.

“The increased funding is pivotal to ensuring councils have the resources they need to keep our roads safe and free of obstructions and hazards.”

Adjacent to City of Greater Bendigo, the increased funding will mean more than $12 million will go towards Macedon Ranges Shire’s roads while just over $9.5 million is being allocated to Mount Alexander Shire.

The Roads to Recovery program is aimed at helping local government municipalities to carry out long-term road maintenance and upgrades such as fixing potholes and pavements, as well as allowing the installation of culverts.

The doubling of cash is contributing to an expected $1 billion allocated to the Roads to Recovery program across the country by the 2027/28 financial year.

Funding for the Federal Government’s Black Spot program, which is aimed at making the country’s more dangerous roads safer, is also set to increase from $110 million to $150 million per year.