Reporting Road Defects

What Are Road Defects?

Road defects are problems or damage found on roads, footpaths, or related infrastructure that may affect safety, comfort, or usability. These issues can develop over time due to weather, traffic, or general wear and tear.

Common road defects include:

• Potholes
• Cracks or surface breaks
• Edge drops or shoulder damage
• Faded line markings
• Blocked drains
• Damaged signs or guardrails

Council regularly inspects roads and paths to identify these defects. If a defect reaches a certain size or severity—called an intervention level—it is scheduled for repair based on the type of road and available resources.

What Is A Pothole?

A pothole is a hole in the road surface caused when water seeps into cracks, weakens the material underneath, and breaks apart the surface. Traffic then worsens the damage, creating a deeper and wider hole.

Potholes can be dangerous for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. That’s why Council monitors them closely and repairs them when they exceed safe limits.

A pothole is a type of road defect listed under “Defect Description” in the plan. It is defined by width and depth thresholds for repair:

• Sealed roads: Intervention when >300 mm wide and >75 mm deep.

• Unsealed roads: Intervention when >450 mm wide and >100 mm deep.

• Paths: Intervention when >150 mm wide and >75 mm deep.

Not All Roads Are Council-Owned

It’s important to know that not all roads within the municipality are managed by Council. Some roads are the responsibility of other authorities, such as:

• Regional Roads Victoria (for arterial roads and highways)
• Department of Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (for roads on Crown land)
• Private landowners or body corporates (for private roads)

Council can only inspect and maintain roads listed in its Public Road Register.

If you notice a defect or hazard on a sealed arterial road managed by Transport Victoria (formerly Vicroads) —such as potholes, faded line markings, damaged signage, or vegetation overgrowth—you can report it directly to VicRoads

Online: Use the VicRoads Road Issue Reporting Form

Urgent Hazards: Call 13 11 70 for immediate concerns that pose a safety risk (e.g. large potholes, fallen trees, or damaged traffic signals).