25 Jul 2023

Mayo infrastructure at risk │The Times, Victor Harbor

By Michael Simmons

ESSENTIAL infrastructure projects in Mayo are at risk under the Albanese Labor Government, with the funding for these projects currently under review.

Ahead of the 2023-24 Federal Budget, the Labor Government announced a 90-day infrastructure review into projects previously announced by the former Liberal Government.

With the deadline of this review now fast approaching, there is no certainty as to whether key projects will retain funding.

The major project which affects the Fleurieu Peninsula is the $20 million Main South Road Productivity Package, which includes the
construction of an overtaking lane near Delamere, between Yankalilla and the Kangaroo Island Ferry and the easing of curves between
Myponga and Yankalilla.

Other projects in Mayo at risk include the $250 million Hahndorf Township Improvements and Access Upgrade and the $2 million
Onkaparinga Valley Road – Tiers Road – Nairne Road Intersection Upgrade.

Senator for South Australia Senator Andrew McLachlan said it was concerning that the Labor Government had yet to commit to these
projects.

“The Labor Government has already delayed and cut $77 million in funding from the Hahndorf project,” Senator McLachlan said.

“Further delays and funding cuts would be particularly disappointing, considering that Labor’s 2023-24 Federal Budget stripped more
than $1 billion from South Australian infrastructure projects and offered no new funding for regional infrastructure.”

Senator McLachlan said regional South Australians deserved to be able to travel properly on adequately funded and well-maintained roads.

“Regional South Australians should not have to worry about their safety when travelling between destinations,” he said.

“Unfortunately, it is clear that rural infrastructure is not a priority of this Labor Government.

“As Fleurieu residents know all too well, there is a desperate need for more overtaking lanes throughout the Peninsula.

“The $20 million Main South Road project announced by the former Liberal Government addresses this need and would improve safety
for locals and tourists travelling to the Kangaroo Island Ferry.

“I call on the Labor Government to commit to these projects and get on with the job of providing essential infrastructure to Mayo
communities.”