In this Budget the Rudd Labor Government is investing over $760.0 million in Victoria's road and rail infrastructure - an investment that will support local jobs and local businesses during the current global recession.

All up, the 2009-10 Budget delivers an increase in Federal funding of $265.0 million, or 53 per cent, over the 2008-09 Budget for Victorian road and rail projects, $120.0 million of which will be provided immediately (in 2008-09) to keep key projects moving forward.

As well as putting in place the modern, well-planned transport infrastructure vital to Victoria's and the nation's long term prosperity, our record investment program will support jobs and provide an immediate stimulus to local economies.

During 2009-10, work will start on a range of major road and rail projects including:

• Nagambie Bypass - scheduled for completion in 2012.


• Traralgon to Sale duplication - scheduled for completion in 2014.


• Anthony's Cutting - scheduled for completion in 2012.


• Springvale Road upgrade - scheduled for completion in 2010.


• Geelong Port Rail upgrades - scheduled for completion in 2010.

At the other end of the construction cycle, the following major projects are expected to be completed by the end of 2009-10:

• Geelong Ring Road Section 3.


• Dynon Missing Link rail project (between Tottenham Dynon and Dynon Port Rail Link Projects).

On top of the additional money for upgrading poorly designed and congested sections of the State's road network, we are funding a range of initiatives designed to improve road safety:

• $27.2 million to eliminate 113 dangerous black spots on local roads;


• $20.2 million to install boom gates and other safety measures at 59 high risk level crossings;


• $3.4 million to address the lack of safe, modern roadside facilities for truck drivers, including new and refurbished rest stops, parking bays and decoupling areas.

Our investment doesn't stop there.

The Rudd Labor Government will provide $192.8 million to help maintain and upgrade local roads in Victoria. Much of this funding will be paid to the State's 79 councils.

The Government is working to strengthen the Australian economy during this global recession. By developing well designed transport networks we are contributing to higher productivity and rising living standards.

That's why the Government is investing so much with such urgency.

Funding for the programs and projects listed above is being delivered under the Rudd Labor Government's six year, $26.7 billion Nation Building Program to which the Victorian Government has signed up.