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23 January, 2004 Media Release Road funding program a positive step A group of regional business leaders has welcomed the Federal Government's commitment to improve country roads as part of this week's $2 billion funding announcement. Champions of the Bush Executive Officer Darren Chester has welcomed the extension of the Roads to Recovery program but cautioned that it would not completely solve the road funding problem throughout regional Australia. "Over several decades, the gap between the work which is required and the amount of funding available has widened to such an extent that many country councils are struggling to maintain basic road and bridge infrastructure," Mr Chester said. "Champions of the Bush has been campaigning for an extension of the Roads to Recovery program because the first stage worked well and we believe local councils are well placed to set local priorities to address the backlog of projects throughout regional Australia. "The extra funding is a welcome sign that the Howard Government is willing to invest in core infrastructure projects to support business growth in country towns. "We look forward to similar funding commitments aimed at improving regional infrastructure in other key areas such as health, education and telecommunications. "More government spending on regional infrastructure will help to build confidence in country communities and help to promote the benefits of living, working and investing in regional areas. "The
best way for the government to encourage jobs growth in regional areas
is to help provide the right environment for private investment. Major
infrastructure projects send a powerful message that the bush is open
for business and there is a great future for companies willing to establish
a presence in regional Australia."
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