Dear Mr Murphy

Thank you for your letter dated 29 March 2011 about a petition recently submitted for the consideration of the Standing Committee on Petitions regarding Princes Highway funding.

I have corresponded with Mr Darren Chester MP on this matter a number of times during. the course of 2008-10, highlighting the substantial financial assistance to State and Local Governments to manage and maintain the roads under their care. This funding is part of the Australian Government's $6.9 billion investment in land transport infrastructure in Victoria over the six year period, 2009-10 to 2013-14.

The Australian Government has committed $140 million towards the duplication of the Princes Highway East between Traralgon and Sale, which will boost freight capacity, reduce travel times and improve road safety.

Thank you for raising this matter.

from the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Mr Albanese