6 March 2025
An elected Coalition Government will deliver on the $1.1 billion Commonwealth budget commitment in partnership with the Victorian Government, to critical upgrades for Victoria’s Western Freeway, following three years of neglect of the western suburbs of Melbourne by the Albanese Government.
“The Coalition is committed to ensuring a safer, more efficient road network for families and small businesses in Melbourne’s west, freight operators and business which is why upgrading the Western Freeway is important,” Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Bridget McKenzie said.
“The Coalition will get infrastructure delivery back on track to cut congestion, improve
road safety and boost Victoria’s economy.”
Senator McKenzie said the cynicism of the Albanese Government knows no bounds, after sitting on a community consultation process without taking action until the eve of
an election.
“The Labor Government has taken western communities for granted. Only when ‘safe’ and neglected Labor seats are under threat do they respond to community concerns.”
This commitment by the Coalition will deliver improved capacity and safety along the Western Freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs, including improvements to the Ferris Road interchange which the Liberal candidate for Hawke, Simmone Cottom has fought for.
The Western Freeway is one of Victoria’s most important transport corridors, carrying
thousands of vehicles daily, including freight, that keeps our economy moving.
“For too long under State and Federal Labor this road has suffered from congestion, safety issues and inadequate capacity.
“The Western Highway is a prime example of the Federal and State Labor governments’ neglect of the western suburbs.”
Senator McKenzie criticised the Albanese Government’s track record on infrastructure.
“After cutting and cancelling more than $30 billion of infrastructure projects, Labor has not invested in the infrastructure needed to accommodate Melbourne’s growth, and we see that every day on the Western Freeway with cars queuing up at exit ramps,” Senator McKenzie said.