Thursday, 2 April 2026

 Martha HAYLETT (Ripon) (14:43): (1613) My question is to the Minister for Transport Infrastructure. Minister, what are the next steps to restart construction on the Western Highway duplication between Buangor and Ararat? Every time I walk down the street or knock on a door in Ararat, this project is the first thing that people raise with me. The stretch of road has claimed too many lives, and there is a real sense of urgency to add more lanes and make the highway safer for motorists. We heard great news last month that the cultural heritage management plan has now been approved and the project’s design has been updated. Locals now want to know when works will begin again and what steps are needed to make this a reality. I look forward to sharing the minister’s response with them.