THE Coalition has attacked the state government for promising to use money it does not have to largely overlook western Victoria in a $1.45 billion rail revival.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan announced on Sunday that a new rail plan would fund projects across the state, including $39 million to improve freight and passenger rail lines to Ararat.
“Regional Rail Revival will deliver better tracks, more services and a brighter future for the rail network regional Victorians rely on,” Ms Allan said.
Premier Daniel Andrews said Victoria was owed the money from the federal government's asset-recycling scheme for leasing the Port of Melbourne.
"Every single dollar that's required to fund these projects is Victorian money," he said.
"I really hope that we don't have to argue about this. We can just get on and get these upgrades done."
Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said the Wimmera had been let down.
“It’s all federal money. I don’t think there is a dollar of state money there,” she said.
“Unfortunately, western Victoria has missed out again.
“Even when Labor is spending someone else’s money, we’re still not on the radar for this city-centric government.”
Member for Ripon Louise Staley said the announcement was unfair and “sneaky”.
“Daniel Andrews announces federal money and then allocates less than three per cent for the Wimmera and Ripon,” she said.
Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Darren Chester also criticised the announcement.
"Premier Andrews has written a Santa wishlist to the prime minister," he said.