Thursday, 19 October 2023

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (14:04): (489) My question is to the Minister for Transport Infrastructure and is in regard to providing certainty of Commonwealth funding for the Swan Hill Bridge. The Swan Hill Bridge was constructed in 1896 and is a key border crossing between New South Wales and Victoria, but the old bridge is no longer fit for purpose. Anyone who has driven over it will agree that a new bridge is needed. It is a single lane, and there are load limits that restrict transport throughout the region, particularly heavy transport vehicles. Three years ago $60 million was allocated by the Commonwealth government for a new bridge, but that funding is now at risk, caught up with the federal government’s 90-day infrastructure review, which is now close to 180 days. What is the minister doing to advocate for Victoria and provide certainty of funding for this key piece of infrastructure? The region has expanding agriculture and horticulture industries, and a new bridge is desperately needed to create more efficient transport routes and improve the supply chain between the states. After 50 years it remains a priority, and locals are tired of waiting. It costs more than $1 million a year to maintain. I call upon the minister to help secure a new bridge for Swan Hill.