MEDIA RELEASE | 8 July 2026
Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) has warmly welcomed the Victorian Opposition’s recent $524 million commitment to duplicate Donnybrook Road and remove the level crossing at Donnybrook Station.
The announcement strongly aligns with OMC’s 2026 State Election Platform, which identifies Donnybrook Road Duplication as a priority transport project requiring state government investment.
OMC, together with Hume City Council and the City of Whittlesea, have consistently advocated for upgrades to Donnybrook Road, highlighting the need to address growing congestion, support freight movements and improve access to jobs and essential services.
Outer Melbourne has experienced rapid population growth, with OMC local government areas absorbing almost half of Victoria’s population growth over the past decade. Despite this, government investment in infrastructure and services has struggled to keep pace with residential need, resulting in a growing gap.
Targeted investment in key road corridors, alongside improved public transport services, is essential to keeping people and goods moving efficiently.
This election commitment is a positive step toward addressing the significant transport challenges facing Melbourne’s north, however further government investment is needed to meet the demands of rapidly growing communities in outer Melbourne.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox:
“This announcement is significant. Donnybrook Road is a critical transport link and delivering this level of investment will make a real difference in easing congestion, improving safety and ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with growth. We welcome the commitment made by the Victorian Opposition to our community.”
Quotes attributable to Hume City Council Mayor, Cr Carly Moore:
“For thousands of local families, this investment means less time sitting in traffic and more time at home with their loved ones. This upgrade of Donnybrook Road will ease congestion, improve safety and enhance access to jobs and services for the people who call Melbourne’s north home. We look forward to the long-term benefits this will bring to our growing city.”