Projects and planning overview
Expanding the public transport network
The Government will build a direct rail to Avalon Airport, as well as new stations at Southland and Grovedale.
Construction of the South Morang railway extension and electrification of the railway line to Sunbury are also progressing. The Government is considering tenders for construction of Regional Rail Link - a major new railway line from West Werribee to the City.
There will be a feasibility study into a Rowville heavy rail link, with planning studies to look at connecting Doncaster and Melbourne Airport into the metropolitan rail network, and the returning passenger trains between Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo. A major planning study into the Melbourne Metro Rail Tunnel is continuing.
Media release: 2011-12 Victorian Budget delivers on Coalition Government commitment to improve regional transport
Rebuilding the basics of public transport
There will be a greater focus on public transport safety with the introduction of 940 Victoria Police Protective Services Offices stationed at every metropolitan and major regional train station from 6pm until the last train.
The Government will significantly increase funding on basic maintenance such as concrete sleepers and new wiring to make Melbourne and Victoria's network more resilient and reduce unexpected faults. It will also immediately purchase 7 new trains, as part of the commitment to 40 new trains.
The Government will also establish an independent Public Transport Development Authority. The Authority will be the primary liaison point with public transport operators and other agencies, working co-operatively with them to improve the integration of their functions and services.
Media release: Coalition delivers $403 million to get back to basics and fix public transport
Media release: Coalition to plan for a better Victorian public transport network
Improving road traffic flow
There will be a push to improve traffic congestion by removing ten of Melbourne's worst level crossings starting with crossings in Springvale and Mitcham.
In addition to completing the Peninsula Link, the M80 (Western Ring Road) and Anthony's Cutting (Western Highway), a series of bypasses will be built to improve road traffic flow throughout Victoria. This includes an expansion of the Dingley bypass and construction of a Koo Wee Rup bypass to fix local and tourist traffic congestion.
The WestLink planning study is continuing.
Media release: Coalition Government delivers $601 million boost for roads
Media release: Coalition Government delivers on removal of Melbourne's worst level crossings