Former VicRoads staff blame privatisation for crumbling roads

The workers, who previously oversaw the maintenance and development of Victoria's transport corridors, argue that the shift away from public management has compromised the quality of the network. Under privatisation, the focus on long-term durability has allegedly been superseded by other priorities, leading to rapid degradation.

In addition to organisational changes, the former staff have raised concerns about the technical methods employed in contemporary road construction. They suggest that current road-building techniques are inadequate for managing the demands of modern traffic and environmental conditions, resulting in premature wear and systemic failures across the state.

While the state government has previously defended its management of the road network and its partnerships with the private sector, these insider accounts suggest deep-seated issues within the planning and maintenance pipeline. The specific projects most affected by these techniques, and the exact cost of remediation, remain unconfirmed.

Road quality continues to be a highly contentious issue for regional and metropolitan motorists alike, with various motoring groups frequently calling for increased funding and better oversight. The revelations from former agency staff are likely to intensify pressure on transport authorities to review their current maintenance contracts and construction standards.

The state government is expected to face further questioning over its road maintenance strategy and the long-term impact of privatisation on public infrastructure.