THE Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is calling on the state and federal governments to better fund councils to deliver safety improvements on local roads.
In Victoria, councils are responsible for 87 per cent of the state’s road network.
“We have a clear understanding that adequate funding is needed to deliver safer journeys for both drivers and vulnerable road users, such as walkers and bike riders,” MAV president David Clark said on Sunday, marking the start of Road Safety Week.
The MAV welcomed last week’s Federal Budget announcement of a significant nationwide boost to local government community infrastructure and road projects, via the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
“This is an important investment for new projects yet councils will still require ongoing support to reduce the growing asset renewal gap,” said Cr Clark, of Pyrenees Shire Council.
The MAV has also been working with councils across the state to advocate for improved walking and bike riding infrastructure, such as separated bike lanes and reduced speed limits in high pedestrian areas.
“According to Victorian councils we recently surveyed, 90 per cent are planning improved walking infrastructure and 83 per cent are planning improved bike riding infrastructure,” Cr Clark said.
“Unfortunately, 83 per cent identify funding as a critical barrier that needs the urgent attention of the Victorian and Australian governments.
“The MAV is pleased to be part of a group of 13 walking, bike riding, transport, health and research organisations urging the Victorian Government to make it easier and safer for people to walk and ride.
“The organisations’ joint consensus statement highlights how an investment of $500 million in walking and bike riding would return a value of $6.5 billion to the Victorian community.”
