Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) has welcomed the Coalition’s announcement of a $607 million commitment to upgrade and extend Thompsons Road.
The OMC described the pledge, announced by the Liberal and Nationals on Sunday, as a significant step towards addressing one of Melbourne’s most important transport and economic development priorities.
The Thompsons Road Upgrade and Extension is identified as a priority project in the OMC 2026 State Election Platform, which calls for investment to transform Thompsons Road into a major cross-metropolitan transport corridor supporting freight movement, economic growth and improved connectivity across Melbourne’s south-east.
Acting OMC Chair and Nillumbik Shire Councillor, Naomi Joiner, said the announcement recognised the importance of investing in infrastructure that keeps pace with population growth.
“OMC welcomes this commitment to Thompsons Road, a project our member councils have been advocating for as a key priority for Melbourne’s growing south-east,” said Cr Joiner.
“Thompsons Road is more than just a local road project. It is critical infrastructure that will improve connectivity, support freight and industrial growth, and help unlock jobs closer to where people live.”
She said the project is also a major regional investment opportunity, highlighting its potential to strengthen connections across the south-east and support future employment and residential growth.
“Communities in Melbourne’s outer suburbs are growing rapidly, but infrastructure investment has not kept pace.”
“This commitment is a welcome acknowledgment of the need to invest in the roads and transport links that support growing communities and local economies.”
OMC has been actively promoting the project through its 2026 State Election Platform and engagement with MPs from across the political spectrum.
“We welcome this announcement and now call on the Victorian Government to match the commitment,” said Cr Joiner.
“Major infrastructure projects such as Thompsons Road should attract bipartisan support because they deliver benefits for communities, businesses and the broader Victorian economy.”
The OMC said it looks forward to continuing to work with all parties and candidates in the lead-up to the Victorian State Election to secure investment in the transport, community and economic infrastructure needed to support Melbourne’s growing outer suburbs.
