Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy, and The Nationals, will deliver $54 million to councils across Lowan to fix local roads and bridges, taking pressure off council budgets and local ratepayers.
The commitment is part of The Nationals and Liberals Country Roads and Bridges Program, providing $288 million over four years to rural councils across Victoria.
Ms Kealy said the funding would make a real difference to communities across Lowan.
“People across Lowan have been telling me one thing loud and clear: just fix the roads,” Ms Kealy said.
“The Nationals have listened, and we will deliver $54 million to our local councils to get on with the job.
“From the Wimmera and Southern Mallee to the Grampians and south-west, our councils are responsible for thousands of kilometres of local roads and bridges, but they simply don’t have the budgets to keep up.
“This funding means more roads fixed, safer travel and less pressure on councils to increase rates to pay for essential road repairs.”
The nine councils covering Lowan will each receive $6 million over four years:
- Ararat Rural City Council
- Glenelg Shire Council
- Hindmarsh Shire Council
- Horsham Rural City Council
- Moyne Shire Council
- Northern Grampians Shire Council
- Southern Grampians Shire Council
- West Wimmera Shire Council
- Yarriambiack Shire Council
“The Nationals understand local councils know which roads and bridges need fixing first. This is guaranteed funding, not another competitive grant program where country councils are forced to fight each other for a share,” Ms Kealy said.
“It also builds on The Nationals’ $5 billion plan to fix our state roads.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s a highway or the local road to your home, farm or business – we all deserve to drive on a safe road that’s free from potholes, crumbling edges and undulations.
“After 12 years of Labor, our roads need a fresh start.
“The Nationals have a positive plan to fix our roads, make them safe and deliver Lowan’s fair share.”