Years of wear, heavy vehicle use and more frequent extreme weather are placing increasing pressure on East Gippsland's road network as East Gippsland Shire Council seeks stronger funding commitments ahead of the 2026 State Election.
Council says pressure on the shire's road network is worsening, and it is seeking stronger funding commitments from all parties and candidates contesting the 2026 Victorian Election to address long-standing maintenance gaps.
East Gippsland covers 10% of Victoria's total land mass with 3046 kilometres of Council-managed sealed and unsealed roads.
"East Gippsland is a nationally significant food and freight region," Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said.
"We need a road network that is safe, reliable and fit for purpose so we can continue to support local jobs, grow our economy and ensure our communities remain connected."
"Investing in regional roads is not just about fixing potholes - it's about strengthening our communities, supporting industry and ensuring the resilience of our region for the future."
Council has backed a call for a $1.5 billion statewide regional roads package, arguing that East Gippsland's extensive road network is not being maintained at a standard that reflects its importance to the state.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the region depends heavily on its road network.
"East Gippsland's roads are critical for freight, tourism and everyday travel, but too many are in poor condition," Cr Ashworth said.
"We are seeing more short-term fixes and ongoing speed restrictions instead of lasting solutions."
Key corridors such as the Princes Highway and Great Alpine Road continue to be affected by heavy vehicle use, severe weather events and general deterioration.
Council is calling for a coordinated package including immediate maintenance reform, targeted upgrades and a more sustainable long-term funding model, alongside stronger Commonwealth-State collaboration.
Investment in regional roads is essential to safely and efficiently move freight, support agricultural production and tourism, reduce travel delays and transport costs, strengthen disaster resilience, and ensure communities can reliably access jobs, education, healthcare and other essential services.
Council's advocacy package in the lead up to the Victorian government election includes priority investments in roads, health, housing, flood and drainage infrastructure, sporting facilities, emergency services, forestry transition and public land management, along with reform of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy.
In addition to these priorities, Council will also continue advocating on the range of projects and programs that matter to East Gippsland communities, as outlined in the East Gippsland Shire Council Plan 2025-2029 on Council's website.
