Wednesday, 13 May 2026

 Roma BRITNELL (South-West Coast) (17:12): (1663) Before the house concludes tonight, I raise an urgent matter for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, and the action I seek is simple: compensate every motorist and every business whose vehicle has been damaged by the government’s incompetent road maintenance works at Illowa. Over the past few days my office has been absolutely inundated with reports from people whose vehicles have been smashed by loose stones and gravel sprayed across the road after road repairs. This incompetent Allan Labor government could not even ensure the road was properly swept before warning signs were removed. In just three days, one local windscreen and panel repair business saw around 70 damaged vehicles, with smashed windscreens, chipped paint and body damage – and that is only one business, so the real figure is far likely worse.

I understand that on Wednesday, when this damage began, motorists alerted VicRoads to the danger and the extent of damage being caused by loose stones on the highway. Then on Sunday a vehicle lost control, skidded off the road and rolled onto its roof. Among the vehicles damaged were seven buses and even a Victoria Police highway patrol vehicle, a clear indication that this was not a matter of careless driving. When trained and highly experienced drivers cannot safely navigate these road conditions, it shows just how dangerous and unacceptable the situation has become.

The government directs affected drivers to go through the VicRoads compensation process, but what it does not tell people is it will not pay for any damage costing less than $1682. Imagine being told you have to wear over $1500 in costs because of the government’s pure incompetence. No Victorian should be left out of pocket for damage caused by failures that were entirely preventable. Windscreens now contain cameras, sensors and safety technology that can cost thousands to replace. The Allan Labor government has a long history of failing to ensure road maintenance is done properly. Contracts lack meaningful accountability clauses. There are no supervision or basic quality assurance measures. This government caused this damage. This government must take responsibility. Motorists should not be left paying the price for substandard roads.

If your vehicle has been damaged on this stretch of road, I encourage you to contact my office with details of the damage and the repair quotes, and I will collate this information and forward it directly to the minister. At a time when families are already being crushed by cost-of-living pressures, they should not be forced to pay for damage caused by government negligence. The government must pay every cent owed to those motorists.