Roads to Recovery funding for local councils will increase to $1 billion a year, along with a $40 billion boost to the Black Spot program and measures to remove administrative burdens from roads funding, the federal government has announced.

It comes after a Grattan Institute survey found the nation’s local road network are in a dangerous state of disrepair and called for an extra $1 billion a year to fix and maintain them.

The Australian Local Government Association has welcomed the announcement as a landmark win.

“For several years, ALGA has consistently advocated for more Roads to Recovery funding that will deliver safer and more productive roads,” President Linda Scott said.

“It’s fantastic to see the government recognising the importance of our local infrastructure, and the key role it plays in building more resilient and connected communities.”

Boosting road safety commitment

Over the weekend, Infrastructure minister Catherine King said the federal government was strengthening its commitment to road safety with increased funding and changes to programs to reduce the administrative burden on councils.

As well increase Roads to Recovery, which is currently at $500 million a year, the Government will expand Black Spot funding the from $110 million to $150 million.

Cr Scott said the $40 million per year increase to Black Spot Program would be welcomed by councils and will help save lives.

“Councils maintain more than 75 per cent of Australia’s roads and this expansion of the Black Spot Program will support us to reduce Australia’s unacceptably high national road toll,” Cr Scott said.

 Meanwhile, the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Prodcutivity Program and the Bridges Renewal Program will be merged into a new Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program with combined funding of $200 million per year.

Councils maintain more than 75 per cent of Australia’s roads and this expansion of the Black Spot Program will support us to reduce Australia’s unacceptably high national road toll.

ALGA president Linda Scott

The government says the changes will allow more money to be spent on projects and less on administration.

“As local road managers, councils play an important role supporting the efficient movement of freight around our nation,” Cr Scott said.

“This new and expanded program will support us to improve our local roads and infrastructure that are crucial to increasing national productivity, while also improving road safety for all users.”

Infrastructure program review

Ms King says the changes were recommended by the Independent Strategic Infrastructure Review, with funding increases to be phased in over forward estimates.

“The Government recognises that local governments require more funding to manage the rising costs and increased pressure on transport infrastructure due to climate change and extreme weather events,” the minister said in a statement.

“These changes will also help ensure funding is stable, predictable and fair into the future.”

Ms King said the government will work with the local government sector in the lead up to the budget to ensure funding is quickly spent where it’s most needed.

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