Council Welcomes Old Sydney Road Funding

Mitchell Shire Council has welcomed a Federal Government announcement of $45 million for much-needed funding for the seal and upgrade of Old Sydney Road in Beveridge.

The project, which will see the 5.57km stretch of Old Sydney Road from the Mitchell/Hume boundary to Camerons Lane in Beveridge upgraded, is part of the Federal Government's $1.2 billion suburban road blitz.

The project has been a critical priority for Mitchell Shire, as it will improve road safety and usability, ensuring reliable alternative north-south access to support the region's rapid population growth.

Reliable road access is essential not only for everyday life but also for unlocking future housing developments, ensuring that the growing community has the infrastructure it needs to thrive.

The upgrade is especially vital as Old Sydney Road serves as a diversion route when incidents occur on the Hume Freeway, as was the case with the truck fire in December 2024.

The incident highlighted the limitations of the current road network and underscored the urgent need for investment in infrastructure that can accommodate the increasing traffic demands.

Upgrading Old Sydney Road is a key infrastructure priority for Mitchell Shire, alongside the Watson Street Interchange upgrade in Wallan and the Camerons Lane Interchange project in Beveridge. Together, these projects will play a crucial role in reducing congestion, improving traffic flow, and supporting the region's rapid growth.

The Watson Street Interchange project has received $90 million in Federal Government funding, with an additional $80 million from the State Government. A business case has been completed, paving the way for the construction of an outbound exit ramp and inbound entry ramp. Once complete, this upgrade will enhance access, ease congestion, and improve safety for commuters.

Meanwhile, Camerons Lane has secured $900 million from the Federal Government, with a business case and planning study set to begin this year. This critical project will unlock future urban development and ensure smoother traffic flow across the region.

With Mitchell Shire's population booming, it is imperative that the State Government pushes these projects forward without delay. The combined impact of these upgrades will significantly ease congestion, providing safer, more efficient road networks for the community now and into the future.

Council will continue advocating for the timely delivery of infrastructure to support current and future residents.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Councillor John Dougall thanked Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell and the Federal Government for the vital funding of the Old Sydney Road works.

"We are very grateful to the Federal Government for hearing the voices of our community and championing this project," he said.

"We're pleased to see Old Sydney Road as one of the first three projects under this funding package. It will enable us to enhance safety and reliability along this crucial route for our residents, businesses, and visitors.

"As we embark on the Old Sydney Road improvements, we eagerly anticipate further announcements from the State Government and the commencement of works on the Watson Street and Camerons Lane projects."

Council will now begin planning the delivery of the upgrade to Old Sydney Road and will keep the community informed as works progress.

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