The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has welcomed a joint announcement from Federal and State Governments for the upgrades of key freight routes in Victoria’s southwest.
The $37.7 million Dairy Supply Chain Road Upgrades, jointly funded by the Federal and Victorian governments, will improve six kilometres of priority freight corridors across Cobden–Stonyford Road, Bullaharre and sections of the Princes Highway West at Pirron Yallock.
The VTA said the funding allocation reflects a recognition that the works as a vital boost to productivity, regional industry growth and long‑term freight network sustainability.
The proposed works will include new road surfaces, enhanced safety barriers, and improved signage and line marking — upgrades specifically designed to improve efficiency and support safer, more reliable freight movement.
The VTA said the transport corridors underpin Australia’s largest dairy production area, where 392,000 cows produce more than 2.05 billion litres of milk annually across over 1,000 farms, and provide essential access for the dairy, timber and agricultural sectors that rely on dependable freight links to national and international markets.
VTA CEO, Peter Anderson, said the continued commitment of both levels of government to upgrading key freight corridors is essential for supporting Victoria’s growing freight task.
“Infrastructure investment is one of the most powerful tools we have for lifting productivity, improving safety and reducing emissions across the freight industry,” Anderson said.
“For operators, better‑designed and better‑maintained roads directly translate into lower operating costs, fewer delays, and safer journeys.
“These upgrades will make an immediate difference to transport businesses in the southwest, and a long‑term difference to the competitiveness of Victoria’s primary industries.”
Anderson said targeted works like those announced this week highlight the value of investment that goes beyond routine maintenance.
“Basic maintenance keeps our system functioning, but renewal and rebuilding projects like these are what future‑proof the network,” he said.
“With freight volumes continuing to grow, especially in regions like the southwest, we simply cannot rely on ageing infrastructure to carry tomorrow’s freight load.
“This investment demonstrates a clear recognition of the role freight plays in supporting Victorian communities and industries.
“A strong transport system is the backbone of a strong economy, and these works are essential to ensuring operators remain productive, competitive and sustainable for decades to come.”
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