Greater Shepparton overlooked in State Budget road funding

The Budget includes $102.6 million for road projects across Victoria, covering metropolitan Melbourne and selected regional centres, however no projects have been announced for Greater Shepparton, despite it being one of Victoria’s fastest‑growing regional cities and a nationally significant centre for food production, manufacturing and freight.

Mayor, Cr Shane Sali, said the omission was deeply disappointing and does not reflect Greater Shepparton’s role or growth.

“Once again, Greater Shepparton has been completely overlooked. Despite being one of Victoria’s fastest‑growing regional cities, not a single road project in this Budget so far is earmarked for our community,” he said.

While the Budget outlines $73.4 million for road development and congestion relief projects across regional Victoria, funding has been directed elsewhere, with no recognition of Greater Shepparton’s growing transport demand, freight task, road safety pressures or flood‑prone corridors.

“Our municipality supports a growing population and nationally significant industries,” Cr Sali said.

“Our roads carry increasing traffic volumes and safety risks, yet investment continues to flow elsewhere. That’s not sustainable for a regional city central to Victoria’s economy.”

Greater Shepparton City Council has consistently advocated for investment in priority corridors and major intersections including Wyndham Street, the Midland Highway and the Goulburn Valley Highway.

“Greater Shepparton cannot continue to miss out year after year while congestion worsens and key freight routes are ignored,” Cr Sali said.

“If the Government is serious about regional growth and road safety, then regions like Greater Shepparton are a critical part of the plan.”

Council will continue to advocate for needs‑based infrastructure investment that reflects Greater Shepparton’s growth, productivity and role as a regional service centre.

Find out more about the Greater Shepparton Victorian Government Priorities 2025/26