Rural City of Wangaratta welcomes commitment to regional roads
Published on 13 July 2026
The Rural City of Wangaratta has welcomed the Victorian Coalition's announcement of a $5 billion investment in road maintenance over four years, saying it reflects long-standing calls from regional communities for greater investment in state-managed roads.
The commitment includes funding for pothole repairs, preventative maintenance, and roadside management, as well as a pledge to increase infrastructure investment across regional Victoria.
As a member of Regional Cities Victoria, Council has supported statewide advocacy for increased investment in regional roads and long-term infrastructure funding.
Mayor Cr Irene Grant said the condition of state-managed roads remains one of the most consistent concerns raised by residents and businesses throughout the municipality.
"Our community has made it clear that the condition of state-managed roads remains a major concern, with 15 of our most complained-about roads managed by the Department of Transport and Planning.”
“Our road network supports local jobs, freight, tourism, and access to essential services. Ensuring these roads are safe is fundamental to the liveability of our region and the safety of everyone who uses them.”
“We welcome any commitment that recognises the importance of investing in regional roads and ensuring country Victoria receives its fair share of infrastructure funding.”
Chief Executive Officer Matt Nelson said the announcement aligned with priorities the Rural City of Wangaratta and Regional Cities Victoria had been advocating for.
"Council has consistently called for a dedicated Regional Development Fund and action to address the growing backlog of maintenance on state-managed roads.”
"Regional roads are critical economic infrastructure. They improve safety, support freight and agriculture, connect businesses to markets, and help visitors access our region."
"We look forward to working with the next Victorian Government to ensure our region receives the investment needed to support our growing regional economy.”
The Rural City of Wangaratta will continue advocating for:
- Increased investment in the renewal and maintenance of state-managed roads across north-east Victoria.
- A dedicated Regional Development Fund to help unlock housing, jobs, and investment through enabling infrastructure.
- Stronger partnerships between councils and government to deliver infrastructure projects that meet local needs.
Council will continue engaging with political parties ahead of the Victorian election to advocate for infrastructure investment across the region.
Additional Information
Mayor Irene Grant recently shared Council's advocacy efforts to push for improved conditions of rural and regional roads in the VLGA Connect podcast.
Listen here: www.buzzsprout.com/1064071/episodes/19439625