Road and public transport projects in growth areas would be
awarded funding on their merit under a Labor government, according to
opposition leader Daniel Andrews.
Mr Andrews said if elected Labor would create an independent body,
Infrastructure Victoria, to advise the government on the funding and
timing of projects across Victoria. Infrastructure Victoria would also
help identify transport needs and consider alternative financing
options.
Mr Andrews said people expected governments to build roads, transport projects, schools and hospitals in a timely manner.
He said infrastructure projects praised by Auditor-General John
Doyle – including the construction of new train stations at Officer and
Williams Landing and the Craigieburn bypass – were Labor initiatives.
Mr Andrews said Mr Doyle’s report was proof that the government had its transport priorities wrong.
“When Denis Napthine spends $8 billion on [east-west link], it
means that other transport projects like new train lines, roads and tram
lines that are urgently needed now won’t be built for decades,” he
said.
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