Our $90 billion Big Build is supporting the economy at a time when we need it most. Projects like the North East Link, Suburban Rail Loop and Metro Tunnel are creating 50,000 direct and indirect jobs across the state.
The Victorian Budget 2022/23 builds on previous year’s significant investments, with additional funds to help make journeys quicker, safer and easier for Victorians.
Road investments
$213 million will be used to improve travel times and safety with a 1.6km upgrade to Mickleham Road in Greenvale.
Jointly funded by the Victorian and Australian governments, the project will upgrade intersections, add traffic lights and create new paths for pedestrians and cyclists, all while supporting up to 176 jobs.
Rail investments
With the Metro Tunnel a year ahead of schedule, day 1 of the city-shaping project is in sight, with recruitment for nearly 300 new drivers and station staff to begin following a $58.7 million boost in the budget.
This huge recruitment and training program will ensure the tunnel is ready for passengers when it opens in 2025.
The Arden Precinct, as part of the Metro Tunnel Project, which will help turn the area into a thriving employment, innovation and residential hub on the doorstep of the CBD.
It’ll help boost our economy with the precinct expected to include up to 34,000 jobs and be home to around 15,000 residents by 2050. The precinct will provide a direct connection to the rail network via the new Arden Station, also opening in 2025.
The budget investment also includes money for 12 brand new VLocity trains for the regional rail network and new stabling facilities at Bairnsdale for VLocity trains on the Gippsland Line.
Upgrades are on the way for suburban and regional train stations, including on the Dandenong and Mernda lines and at Woodend and Warrnambool. The upgrades will include better signage, new passenger shelters, boarding ramps, CCTV, lighting and bicycle parking facilities.
$181 million will be allocated to rail freight lines and $43.7 million to help deliver better V/Line services for all Victorians.