‍ SENATOR THE HON BRIDGET McKENZIE

Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development

Leader of The Nationals in the Senate

Senator for Victoria

DR ANNE WEBSTER MP

The Nationals Member for Mallee

Wednesday 30 April 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

Coalition pledges $5 million for Mildura Freight Bypass Study

An elected Coalition Government will invest $5 million to undertake a feasibility study into a future Mildura freight bypass, aimed at improving safety, efficiency and liveability in Sunraysia’s capital.

Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie, said the Coalition will kickstart planning for a future freight bypass of Mildura with a $5 million study to get trucks out of Deakin and Benetook avenues.

“As part of our plan to build a stronger national economy and fix Labor’s cost of living crisis, the Coalition will invest in safer and more efficient national highways and freight routes and fixing the Sturt Highway crossing of the Murray River is a critical priority,” Senator McKenzie said.

“Our truckies claim a Mildura bypass could save up to 60 minutes off the 15 hour trip between Adelaide and Sydney, which would deliver significant efficiencies and savings in the cost of getting food and goods to Australian families.

“Anne Webster has been a powerful advocate for this project, hosting a forum with local councils and freight businesses and I am pleased to commit to the first stage which is doing the planning,” Senator McKenzie said.

The Nationals Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster MP said the feasibility study is a vital next step to build up a case to make the bypass a reality given the increasing number and size of freight vehicles moving through Mildura’s town centre.

“The study will acknowledge the 2005 GHD report which recommended a new bypass bridge at Monak, but will be an all options investigation to help plan the very best possible means of addressing the Sunraysia region’s long term transport needs,” Dr Webster said.

“A Mildura bypass would help address the daily crawl on the Sturt Highway at Buronga, on the George Chaffey Bridge and intersection with Seventh Street and San Mateo Avenue and make our streets safer.”

“The greater Mildura region’s booming horticulture sector has led to a surge in freight traffic, including trucks from New South Wales and South Australia,” Dr Webster said.

“This growing freight volume is impacting public safety, community amenity and Mildura’s ability to further develop its tourism economy. It’s fantastic to see the Coalition backing a proper study to deliver long-term, informed solutions to support the region’s future.”

“While the Albanese Labor Government continues to turn its back on our community, the Coalition is standing up for Mildura — and today’s announcement proves it.”

‍

‍

‍