General News
14 March, 2025
Rail bridge upgrade
Two key pieces of infrastructure in the Wimmera will undergo upgrades following a joint funding commitment by the Federal and State governments.
Federal transport minister Catherine King announced on Thursday, March 6, that $6.1 million was allocated to strengthening bridges in Dimboola and Dadswells Bridge.
Ms King said the works, expected to be finished in 2026, would improve transit times along the Melbourne-Adelaide railway line and allow for future industrial growth.
"We're investing in the transport projects that matter most to Victorians, delivering a rail link to Melbourne Airport, fixing our regional and suburban roads, and strengthening our busiest freeways," she said in a statement.
The announcement was part of a $1.1 billion pledge to upgrade the Western Freeway.
Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster said the bridge works would be a bipartisan commitment.
"I can confirm that the investment of $6.1 million to strengthen the Dimboola Bridge and Dadswells Bridge will remain in the Budget under a Coalition Government," she said.
"However, it comes three years too late.
"Let's be clear, within the 216 kilometres of the Western Highway to the border situated within the Mallee electorate, we are receiving just half-a-per-cent - $6.1 million - of the $1,100 million the Minister committed on Thursday - mostly for a combined distance of 20 kilometres."