Councils across South Australia can now apply for funding to support local road projects through the 2024-25 round of the Special Local Roads Program.
The program provides essential funding for strategic and significant roads in metropolitan and regional areas across the state.
LGA SA President, Mayor Dean Johnson said the funding – which comes from councils pooling together portions of their federal road funding – enables local governments to tackle strategic local road projects that would otherwise stretch beyond their budget capacities.
“The Special Local Roads Program is a great example of South Australian councils working together to support the construction and maintenance of key local roads – both sealed and unsealed – and bridges, to help build stronger communities,” Mayor Johnson said.
“Ensuring our local roads are up to scratch improves the safety and experience of all motorists, including visitors from interstate, which in turn promotes economic and business growth as well as local employment.
“By sharing their federal road funding, councils can target the high priority roads which need the most attention and provide safer and more reliable roads for everyone.”
Councils are responsible for maintaining and upgrading 76% of South Australia’s road network and rely on state and federal funding to keep roads safe.
But with huge cost increases for road materials and labour, there is a strong need for additional funding, said Mayor Johnson.
“Further investment in South Australia would make a significant difference to the scope and size of works councils are able to carry out on local roads, providing bigger benefits to communities,” he said.
State Minister for Local Government and Regional Roads, Geoff Brock said the Special Local Roads Program highlights the value of governments coming together to improve road safety.
“This additional Government support allows councils to deliver local projects that benefit their communities and the wider road network.”
“Regional roads are a key focus, enabling the sector to identify works needed and invest in upgrades that may otherwise be out of reach,” Mr Brock said.
With the latest round of the Special Local Roads Program now open, Mayor Johnson encouraged all councils to get their applications in as soon as possible.
“Nearly $18 million was awarded to successful councils through last year’s program, supporting 28 vital projects across South Australia – from the Eyre Peninsula to the Limestone Coast, and everywhere in between.”
“These works help to transform significant and strategic local roads across the state, improving safety, productivity and reliability for the freight network, tourists and locals.
“I encourage councils to apply for funding through the Special Local Roads Program’s 2024-25 round,” he said.
Applications are open until 4pm, Monday 29 April with full details available on the LGA website: www.lga.sa.gov.au/slrp.
