“The Victorian government’s announcement that the widening of the Tullamarine Freeway is an infrastructure priority is a smart move in mobilising a pipeline of critical works,” Master Builders Association of Victoria CEO Radley de Silva said.

“We are pleased the state government has pledged to spend the $9.7 billion from the Port of Melbourne sale on transport projects, and $300 million toward improving the Tullamarine Freeway is an investment in making our state a better place to live and do business,” he said.

“Following the windfall sale of the port with shrewd investment in infrastructure will allow both Victorians and the state economy to thrive,” he said. “The stars have aligned for building on that good fortune.”

Launching the freeway expansion means more jobs in the building and construction sector, which is Victoria’s second-largest full-time employer.

“We also look forward to reviewing the details of Infrastructure Victoria’s draft of their 30-year plan tomorrow,” Mr de Silva said.

“There is certainly no shortage of opportunities to address the critical need for engineering construction works to support Victoria as its population growth accelerates to historic levels,” he said.

“Instead of a laundry list of what could be done, Master Builders wants to see a cohesive plan for identifying specific action on building and construction and how it will be launched and managed,” Mr de Silva said. “The crucial requirements include not just transport, but planning, schools, aged care centres, hospitals, investment in future skills and technology, and quality social infrastructure to respond to the needs of the booming population.”