Govt offers $1b to move regional freight
The federal government will announce an additional $1 billion to upgrade roads that feed into major highways in the budget, as it looks to boost its standing in the regions.
The additional amount, aimed at upgrading freight networks so goods are delivered faster in the regions, will take the total spend on the Roads of Strategic Importance program to $4.5 billion over 10 years.
The money will go to at least seven freight corridors across Queensland, Victoria, NSW and Tasmania, The Australian reports.
"These upgrades will support industries and communities that are critical for freight and tourism," Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack told the paper.
The coalition is facing a challenge in regional seats with a swing away from the Nationals, which lost three seats in the NSW state election.
