Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Acting Chief Executive Bryce Prosser said this project will reduce congestion, increase productivity and create jobs in Shepparton and its surrounding areas.

“The Shepparton Bypass will benefit businesses and support regional communities by reducing travel times and promoting growth and jobs in Shepparton,” he said.

The funding is a part of the State Government’s budget allocation of $531 million to improve roads in regional Victoria, including a $260.3 million boost to regional road maintenance.

The Victorian Chamber also welcomes the $1.45 billion Regional Rail Revival package to benefit regional rail lines across Victoria.

“Regional Victorians depend on a reliable rail service connecting the entire state. This budget recognises that Victoria’s rail and road transport network needs investment and this will result in increased productivity benefitting thousands of businesses,” he said.

“Investing in our transport network around regional Victoria is vital to maintain connectivity around the state, so projects such as this and investment in regional roads are vital for our state’s future.