Tuesday, 3 February 2026

 Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) (19:45): (2097) My question today is for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety. A family-run business in the Eastern Victoria Region, Pakenham Bulk Foods, has suffered a 60 per cent collapse in turnover. This is due to the prolonged road closures on Bald Hill Road and Racecourse Road since early 2025. The works are now expected to continue until at least early this year. Despite repeated engagements with Major Road Projects Victoria and Cardinia Shire Council, no support was provided. The business reports no rate relief, no financial assistance and no hardship support. Staff have been laid off, and the closure is now imminent. The council has confirmed that the project is a state government responsibility. Businesses were offered letterbox drops or relocation advice and no financial relief. My question for the minister is: why hasn’t effective hardship or income support been provided to the businesses harmed by poorly managed and prolonged state road closures?