Deputy Speaker,

Residents in the Armstrong Creek growth corridor in my electorate of Corangamite are angry and frustrated. Multiple road closures over sustained periods, a lack of communication from council and developers and poorly maintained roads are the key reasons for their discontent. I know this because I recently conducted a road survey after so many locals complained to my office about the questionable management of local roads in Armstrong Creek, Charlemont and Mount Duneed. The survey results reinforced what residents have been saying for some time. Many feel boxed in by overlapping multiple road closures. Others complain of dangerous road conditions and a lack of planning costing them time and money. Here's what one local resident, Bridget, said:

I am deeply troubled by the unsafe conditions resulting from the roadworks. These conditions make it extremely difficult to reach essential services … without enduring a lengthy and perilous journey.

Another local resident, Emily, said:

It's so disappointing to see a lack of corporation for locals, and the illogical planning that is being done when works are undertaken.

I'm urging council to act and fix the problem now. I've written to council twice about this issue, and my office has been in regular contact. In response to calls from community as detailed in their survey response, I urge council to review current and upcoming road closures to ensure timely access and egress for residents of the Armstrong Creek area; review the method and distribution of communications to residents, local businesses, traders, educational providers and emergency services to ensure they receive adequate notification of current and upcoming road closures; focus particularly on Horseshoe Bend, Boundary and Reserve roads, noting the federal government has funded an upgrade for the dangerous Reserve Road and Surf Coast Highway intersection, including traffic lights and turning lanes; and investigate federal funding opportunities under our expanded Roads to Recovery program and black spot program. I note that this morning council has stated they will review their communications.

I do acknowledge that we have significant and rapid growth in Armstrong Creek, but it's up to council and developers to work together and to be strategic when planning the building, maintenance and access to roadways. As the federal member, I acknowledge I'm not in charge of local roads in the Armstrong Creek area, but I have a clear role to play in advocating to the city of greater Geelong to get better outcomes for my communities. They deserve it. They deserve safe, accessible roads.