Scrapping the Bridges renewal program will have devastating consequences for the Hume electorate, says Angus Taylor.
The Hume MP and shadow treasurer said the Albanese Government’s decision made it clear Labor do not understand the importance of our road networks in driving national economic growth and prosperity.
He said the Bridges Renewal Program has been critical to enabling the following projects in the Hume electorate to be built, among many others:
- Wollondilly Shire Council – Cedar Creek Road Matthews Creek bridge replacement (completed);
- Mount Hercules Road causeway replacement, Razorback (under construction);
- Wingecarribee Shire Council – Construction of Bundanoon Creek bridge (completed);
- Wingecarribee Shire Council – Belanglo Road culvert replacement (completed)
“In their first 18 months the Albanese Government has taken the axe to road funding and now Labor is planning to abolish yet another road program specifically designed to support regional industries by fixing country bridges so they can safely carry heavy trucks,” Mr Taylor said.
“Everywhere you look, state and federal Labor Governments are ruthlessly slashing and axing road programs all to fund their own pet projects such as live music arenas and sports stadiums.’’
Shadow minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development, Senator Bridget McKenzie said it was incredibly disappointing to see the Albanese Government recklessly abandoning rural and regional road safety programs with seemingly no care for the consequences.
“By canning the Bridges renewal program, Labor are putting the safety of our truck drivers and everyday road users’ at risk by forcing them to take longer routes and use decaying roads and bridges,” Senator McKenzie said.
“Labor have not considered the flow on effects its decision to cancel the program will have on industry productivity.
“It is crucial throughout rural and regional Australia to have bridges which enable heavy vehicle access to farms so fodder and supplies are delivered, and agricultural commodities can make its way to market.’’
