Bridge strengthening works are being delivered across Victoria through a $128 million project which will boost road network capacity and improve efficiency for freight operators and farmers.
The program of works will allow heavier loads to move more efficiently – delivering immediate benefits to the transport industry while future-proofing Victoria’s High Productivity Freight Vehicle Network.
The Australian and Victorian Governments’ joint investment will help recognise the importance of freight and logistics in Victoria, with over 260,000 Victorians employed in the $36 billion industry.
“These bridge upgrades are about making sure Victorian producers and freight operators can get their goods to market quickly, safely and efficiently,” said Acting Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Julie Collins.
“We’re creating stronger, more reliable infrastructure to support local jobs and strengthen supply chains that communities and businesses across the state rely on.”
Four bridges on Corio Quay Road in Geelong are being upgraded to cater for Victoria’s most efficient trailer combinations.
This will also enable GeelongPort to continue to function as one of the state’s main grain export shipping hubs.
Bridges along Great Ocean Road at Skenes Creek and Wye River will also be upgraded, along with two structures on Lavers Hill-Cobden Road to support the region’s diary industry.
“Stronger bridges mean a stronger freight network – allowing operators to carry more, more efficiently, and avoid costly detours,” said Victorian Minister for Ports and Freight, Roads and Safety, Melissa Horne.
“By fixing these pinch-points, we’re giving farmers, exporters and freight operators the reliable connections they need to stay competitive here and overseas.”
Later this year, projects on the Princes Highway west will begin at Allansford, Dennington, Weerite, Narrawong, Yambuk and Dartmoor, improving key routes which support wind farm and plantation timber businesses.
Meanwhile the Bunyip River Princes Highway Bridge westbound at Longwarry North in Gippsland has already been upgraded, with strengthening works on the Nerrena Road Leongatha Tarwin River Bridge almost complete.
The Wodonga Creek and Pranjip Creek Longwood upgrades along the Hume Freeway – Victoria’s busiest interstate road freight corridor – are also nearing completion.
In other news, Fonterra has released financial year 2025 results which demonstrate continued success for the company.
