Senator for Victoria, Sarah Henderson, has doubled down on her criticism of the Albanese Government after its decision to scrap two major infrastructure projects for the electorate of Indi.
The Federal Government swung the axe on the proposed Murray Valley Highway improvement project at Rutherglen and a vital Hume Highway intersection upgrade south of Wodonga after a review of infrastructure spending earlier this month.
Senator Henderson said the cancellation of both projects would have far-reaching impacts across both communities.
“Beyond the immediate construction setbacks, these infrastructure projects were pivotal for fostering not just safety but also sustained community growth and economic development,” Senator Henderson said.
The $168 million McKoy St-Hume Freeway intersection upgrade south of Wodonga, aimed at diverting traffic and reducing congestion, would have delivered safer roads and reduced travel times.
A $2 million study into the Rutherglen Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route represented a crucial first step in upgrading the Murray Valley Highway to deliver vital safety improvements and improved connectivity, so important for industry and tourism.
“It is easy to understand how residents across Indi could feel forgotten when vital projects like this, so unceremoniously, land on Labor’s chopping block,” Senator Henderson said.
It is clear the member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines, is not doing enough to advocate for vital infrastructure investment.
Senator Henderson said the Coalition would continue to fight for the investments the people of Indi deserve.
“In contrast to the former Coalition government’s major investments in the Indi electorate, all we have seen from Labor is cuts.
“This is one more example of the Albanese government turning it back on regional Victoria and country communities.”