A new Gippsland Forestry Hub report exposes the Allan Government’s ongoing failure to maintain the regions transport infrastructure, directly undermining forest fuel reduction and bushfire preparedness.
The report states key roads and bridges are not fit for purpose with imposed load limits and transport route restrictions on the deteriorating network, highlighting missed opportunities to shift freight to rail, reduce truck movements and improve road safety.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath who is also Shadow Minister for Public Land Management said Labor is aware of the problem, but it’s refusing to act which is leaving communities exposed to a heightened bushfire risk.
“Blocked access hurts jobs, stymies forest fuel reduction work, delays firefighting response and puts lives at risk,” said Ms Bath.
“Poor maintenance and restrictive access rules on state managed roads is pushing trucks onto unsuitable local roads.
“The Allan Government is failing to perform basic maintenance required for the movement of firefighting crews and equipment and support bushfire preparedness.
“You cannot protect the environment and people if machinery and fire trucks cannot access the fire ground in an emergency.”
The report highlights the need for state government investment in key infrastructure projects including the Traralgon Bypass and Sale Alternate Truck Route and the removal of 80km per hour speed restrictions on the Princes Freeway.
Ms Bath said the Allan Government’s prolonged neglect of regional road infrastructure disadvantages motorists and puts communities and our environment at risk.
“Rural and regional Victoria are 25 percent of the population but receives only 13 percent of the state’s infrastructure spending.
“Well maintained roads, bridges and keeping access open matters.
“Victorians deserve safe roads, effective fuel hazard management and a state government that plans and acts before disaster strikes – not after.”
