Lisa Chesters MP, Federal Member for Bendigo, today announced that a number of local councils will benefit from this funding boost to support local road projects.

• City of Greater Bendigo will receive $2,245,916 plus an additional $1,295,494.
• Macedon Ranges Shire Council will receive $1,441,216 plus an additional $831,325.
• Mount Alexander Shire Council will receive $1,082,212 plus an additional $624,244.

Across these local councils, the total funding amount is $7,520,407.

Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program has already delivered $500 million to Australian councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in their region, creating jobs and long-lasting benefits for communities. 

The additional $250 million investment is available to councils classified as rural, regional or outer-urban to spend on road projects.

466 of Australia’s 550 councils will benefit from the extra funding committed to by Labor at the last election.

The Government has drawn on the Australian Classification of Local Governments, as a robust framework underpinning the determination of eligible councils for this additional $250 million in funding.

In March, the Government extended project construction timelines for Phases 1–3 of the program. Councils across Australia will now have until 30 June 2024 to complete works, giving them a much-needed extra year on the LRCI construction timeframes for all three phases.

Individual council allocations are available on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program website.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

 “We are delivering our election commitment of a further $250 million through Phase 4 to prioritise road upgrades in regional, rural and outer urban areas.

“We know many councils across the country are struggling to maintain and improve their local road networks – especially following repeated flooding and other natural disasters in recent times.

“We have listened to councils and are standing stand side-by-side with local governments to support them in their vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for their communities.”

Quotes attributable to Lisa Chesters MP, Federal Member for Bendigo:

“Phases 1-3 supporting of the LRCI help to fund around 9,500 projects nationwide. 

“In the Bendigo electorate, local councils allocated funds to rebuild the Lake Weeroona playground, install an EV charging station in Kyneton and pedestrian lights in Castlemaine.

“We recognise the positive difference LRCI-supported projects make to communities. This is Federal Government funding we give to local Government to decide how best to spend.

“We are steadfast in our support and recognition for local councils as trusted delivery partners of the crucial infrastructure and services communities need and deserve.”