Matt Johnston: Federal Budget infrastructure spend Victoria had to have
WITH our population growing by 150,000 a year, this was the infrastructure spend Victoria had to have, writes Matt Johnston.
Opinion
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WITH our population growing by 150,000 a year, this was the infrastructure spend Victoria had to have.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Treasurer Scott Morrison selected a range of projects across the state to spread the cash around.
The big-ticket item is on the horizon — the long-awaited rail link between the city and Melbourne airport — meaning only a small portion of the $5 billion will flow within four years.
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But the Turnbull Government has wisely factored the spending into its calculations, rather than keeping it “off the books” through an equity deal no one would understand.
The North East Link is the next biggest recipient, and the fact that this project has state government support is significant.
The federal commitment for $1.75 billion towards the North East Link, as well as holding out a promise for $3 billion for an East West Link, allows the Commonwealth to effectively sit on the fence when it comes to state government road wars.
Premier Daniel Andrews has welcomed the North East Link money, which will surely be matched by federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten before the year ends.
Mr Andrews wants to sign a contract for the North East Link next year if Labor is re-elected in the November state election.
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy has a different plan, wanting to first build stage one of the East West Link — between the Eastern Freeway and CityLink in Parkville — if the Coalition is elected. Under his government, the North East Link would get done later.
While that battle unfolds, Mr Turnbull can remain positive on both options and show his government is ready to be a willing partner in a major Victorian road project.
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