Strathbogie Shire Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement of the next stage of the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program and the 2025–26 Road Maintenance Blitz, saying it will make an important difference to road safety and reliability across the region.
The investment will see crucial upgrades funded across key local routes – including Violet Town–Murchison Road, the Hume Freeway at Seymour, and the Goulburn Valley Highway at Tabilk.
Mayor, Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the funding recognises the importance of maintaining safe and resilient road networks across rural Victoria.
“After months of strong advocacy, we’re delighted to see our persistence pay off. These upgrades are a direct result of early and ongoing conversations with government about the safety and condition of our local roads. Improvements along Violet Town–Murchison Road, the Hume Freeway at Seymour and the Goulburn Valley Highway at Tabilk will make a tangible difference for our residents, local businesses, freight operators and visitors,” the Mayor said.
Under the program, rehabilitation works will take place along key stretches of the Hume Freeway at Tallarook and resurfacing at Seymour and Tabilk, improving conditions for local residents, freight operators and visitors.
Mayor Ewart-Kennedy said the investment recognises the importance of maintaining safe and resilient road networks across rural Victoria.
“Every day, people in Strathbogie Shire rely on our roads to get to school, work, appointments, and community events. These upgrades are not just about smoother journeys – they’re about keeping people safe and ensuring our region stays connected,” she said.
“Each life lost or seriously injured on our roads has a ripple effect – in small rural communities like ours, those losses are felt deeply. Families, friends, neighbours, and local emergency services all carry that impact. The trauma of a road crash reaches far beyond the immediate moment; it stays with people for years. That’s why every investment in safer roads, better surfaces and clearer signage is an investment in protecting our community from that heartbreak.
“We know that the condition of our road network has a direct impact on local confidence, liveability, and economic opportunity. Council welcomes the State’s commitment to ongoing investment and collaboration to deliver the upgrades our communities need.”
Mayor Ewart-Kennedy said Council would continue to work closely with the Department of Transport and Planning and the Transport Accident Commission to advocate for future rounds of safety and maintenance funding.
“Our priority is to ensure every kilometre of local road – whether it’s a major highway or a smaller road – meets the standards our residents deserve,” she said.
The Safe Local Roads and Streets Program provides $210 million over four years to improve local safety and reduce road trauma, with councils able to apply for grants of up to $2 million to design and deliver local projects.
