The national council lobby has welcomed Labor’s latest roads pledge. 

Labor’s proposed $250 million expansion of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program would benefit Australian communities through improved local sporting facilities, new and upgraded libraries and playgrounds, and safer roads, according to the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA). 

ALGA President Linda Scott said local governments had strongly advocated to both major parties for more LRCI funding in the lead-up to this year’s federal election.

“We welcomed the Government’s $500 million expansion of this program in the 2022-23 Federal Budget, and local governments are thrilled that Labor has today committed to a further $250 million if elected,” Cr Scott said.

“Councils are now calling on the Prime Minister and Coalition to match this commitment and extend the total size of this highly successful funding program to $3.25 billion.

“Since the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program was launched two years ago, local governments have partnered with the Commonwealth to deliver thousands of new projects right across our country.

“We have built and upgraded community centres, libraries, skate parks, bike paths, walking trails, swimming pools, playgrounds, and local sporting facilities.

“Working with the Commonwealth, we have improved the liveability of our communities, reduced cost-of-living pressures for local families, and created thousands of new jobs.

“Importantly, this federal program provides funding to all councils, so all communities benefit.

“The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program has been a huge success, and we look forward to working with whoever forms the next federal government to roll out even more local community infrastructure across our nation.”