Funding for urgent safety improvements for the dangerous Calder Freeway has been cut by the Albanese Labor Government, according to the Minister for Infrastructure, the Hon Catherine King MP.
Funding for the Calder was promised by the previous government, only to have the project axed by Minister King last week following the infrastructure spending review.
This backflip on funding for the Calder is particularly disappointing given that both State and Federal Governments original committed $50million each to the development of the business case and initial works.
Minister King gave multiple reasons for the decision, quoted as ‘not realistically going to be delivered with the available funding, had made little to no progress over a significant amount of time, or did not align with national priorities.’
Brimbank Council has been advocating for improvements with its ‘Fix the Calder’ campaign, supported by independent research and supporting local action and broader community awareness of the dangers to motorists and pedestrians.
The Calder has been identified as one of Victoria’s most dangerous roads.
The Victorian Government also committed $50million for the business case and initial works, in addition to completing the business case for a diamond interchange at Calder Park Drive and undertaking extensive community consultation.
Council will continue to engage with all levels of government to secure future funding for this very important project. The Calder has once again been identified as a priority in Council’s Advocacy Plan (2023-25).
Quotes attributable to Brimbank Mayor, Cr Ranka Rasic:
“It’s not good enough. Safety improvements are desperately needed on the Calder. Community safety should always be the priority of government.
“Brimbank Council calls on both levels of government to publically release the business case and commit to delivering its recommendations.
“Minister King can and should reinstate the funding according to the safety priorities identified by the Brimbank community and Victorian Government.”