Farmers and producers across Victoria will get better access to markets and communities thanks to funding from the Victorian Government to improve the vital network of local roads and infrastructure.

Rural, regional and interface councils will be able to apply for funding under the $20 million AgriLinks Upgrade Program to get on with important road upgrades such as fixing intersections, widening and sealing roads and strengthening bridges to carry heavier loads.

Eligible councils can apply for up to $350,000 with no co-contribution required, with additional funding available on a co-contribution basis for councils wanting to complete bigger projects.

These important road infrastructure upgrades will increase productivity and reduce travel times, allowing businesses across the state to grow and reach more customers.

The agriculture industry is an important driver of jobs and growth in regional communities, with this investment in road upgrades seeing more people get back to work on projects that benefit all road users.

The program compliments funding provided to councils for road upgrades through the previous Local Roads to Market Program, which supported 78 local projects, such as the Glendhu Creek Bridge widening and Joel Joel Road upgrade in North Grampians Shire Council which enabled the byway to accommodate two-way heavy vehicle traffic.

Councils eligible to apply for funding will be contacted directly by Agriculture Victoria for assistance with guidelines and applications.

The AgriLinks Upgrade Program is part of the government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package that is getting thousands of Victorians back to work on crucial infrastructure projects around Victoria.

For more information visit agriculture.vic.gov.au.