A survey completed by RACV has revealed that poor road surface conditions have overtaken dangerous driver behaviour as the top safety concern for motorists.
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said the My Country Road Survey, which had over 7,000 respondents, listed roads within the Shepparton District among the top 20 with safety concerns.
“The Goulburn Valley Highway from Shepparton to Nagambie and the Midland Highway from Tatura to Shepparton have all been named among the most reported roads,” Mrs O’Keeffe said.
“I’m sure it comes as no surprise to anyone who has travelled on our roads recently that the reported safety issues include potholes, poor road conditions, limited overtaking opportunities, and intersection safety concerns.”
Mrs O’Keeffe said the survey results highlighted the need for immediate action to address road maintenance, repairs and road safety issues across the Region.
“The Labor Government cut a 45 per cent reduction in road maintenance since 2020 and a further $88 Million in the Last budget, as well as $230 Million from road safety programs. This is yet another consequence of the government’s financial mismanagement, putting lives at risk,” Mrs O’Keeffe said.
“Labor is allowing our regional roads to crumble while it wastes billions of dollars in cost over-runs on city-centric projects.”
With maintenance funding slashed and speed limits reduced on numerous roads due to poor conditions, the RACV is urging the government to prioritise road improvements and invest in critical infrastructure upgrades.
“What more will it take for this government to listen and to prioritise our roads as a matter of urgency,” Mrs O’Keeffe said
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage our roads, and regional Victorians are paying the price.”
