Council welcomes promise of return of $288 million Country Roads and Bridges Program

The news that a future Victorian Government could restore dedicated funding for regional roads and road safety through the Country Roads and Bridges program has been welcomed by Mansfield Shire Council.

Last week, the Victorian Liberal – National Coalition announced their commitment to reinstate a Country Roads and Bridges-style program, which would provide rural and regional councils with designated annual funding for local road and bridge upgrades.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said reliable, ongoing funding certainty was critical for councils working to maintain ageing local road networks with limited rate revenue.

"Local roads are the backbone of daily life across regional Victoria. They get our kids to school, our farmers to market and our visitors to the businesses that contribute to our local economy," he said.

"Any commitment that gives councils certainty to plan and deliver road and bridge works, rather than competing for funding through short-term grant rounds, is a welcome step. The return of the Country Roads and Bridges program would help us get on with the job our community expects, without adding further pressure to rates."

The condition of local roads and bridges remains one of the most consistent concerns raised by the Mansfield Shire community and guests to the region. Council welcomes increased attention on the issue from all sides of politics.

"We want to see this kind of commitment across the board. Every party and every candidate seeking to represent regional Victoria should be putting forward a genuine plan for local roads and road safety.

"The return of the Country Roads and Bridges Program would represent an additional $1.5m for Mansfield Shire per annum – that would be a welcome boost."

“We need all levels of government to work together on a long-term, approach to regional road maintenance and safety that offers value for money, rather than relying on election-cycle announcements."

Council will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of the community for the funding and support needed to keep local roads safe, well-maintained and fit for the future.