Nationals Member for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe has called on the Treasurer Tim Pallas in Parliament today, demanding adequate funding in the upcoming May budget to repair the appalling, unsafe and deteriorating roads across the Shepparton District.
“The state of our roads has been deteriorating dramatically, with cuts to the roads maintenance budget totalling 45 per cent since 2020,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“Having to navigate dangerous potholes and damaged road surfaces is putting the lives at risk.”
“Victoria is experiencing its highest road toll in 15 years, with a significant number of these tragedies occurring in Regional Victoria.
“Without substantial investment in road repairs and improvements to ensure safer roads, the number of lives lost on our roads is likely to increase further.
Ms O’Keeffe also emphasised the significance of the Shepparton district as a major transport hub and thoroughfare and highlighted the economic ramifications of the current state of disrepair.
“Our second-rate road infrastructure is hampering the ability to efficiently transport produce from my region,” she said.
“Vehicles are getting damaged, costing businesses thousands of dollars a month, in addition to out-of-pocket expenses for constituents which they cannot afford during a cost-of-living crisis.”
Recent reports, including a finding by the National Transport Research Organisation, reveal that 91 per cent of Victorian roads are rated as “poor or very poor”. This alarming condition underscores the urgency for action.
“Rather than seeing repairs, the crumbling roads are subjected to speed limit reductions or warnings,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“Our community deserves safe, reliable roads to support not only daily travel but also the vital economic activities of our region.
“I call on the Treasurer to recognise the critical state of our roads and ensure the May budget adequately addresses the need for substantial funding towards road repair and road maintenance.”