Opposition leader Matthew Guy outlines top priorities for south-west

"The south-west needs support and a plan to get its growing education, hospitality, tourism and events sectors back up and running," Mr Guy said.

"Local roads, health and community infrastructure are front of mind."

Mr Guy said he was aware south-west roads were in a dire state.

"I have travelled to every corner of Victoria and whilst neglected roads are not exclusive to the south-west, it's very clear that roads in the region are in desperate need of maintenance," he said.

Mr Guy said Victorians needed a plan for ongoing upkeep of roads to stop the needless waste of taxpayer funds. "The Victorian Liberal Nationals plan to maintain our roads proactively, before they become dangerously degraded and lives are put at risk," he said.

Mr Guy said he was disappointed The Lookout rehabilitation facility had not been delivered.

"The Victorian Liberals committed to funding this vital project prior to the 2018 state election," he said.

"It's incredibly disappointing that almost four years on, this project still hasn't been delivered by the state government despite the ongoing efforts of local MP Roma Britnell.

"Roma's advocacy for this important project is a key step to reducing drug related harm in the south-west - this project deserves to be supported."

Mr Guy took the opportunity to congratulate south-west residents on leading the way when it came to vaccination against COVID-19.

"South-west Victorians have led the way in our state with more than 95 per cent now double vaccinated, which is an amazing effort," he said.

Mr Guy said he was calling for a number of initiatives to help rebuild economies in regional areas such as Warrnambool. "Policies the Liberals just announced which we are encouraging the Andrews Labor government to adopt, such as free regional train travel, will help the south-west coast reopen, recover and rebuild," he said.

Mr Guy said he was also disappointed the upgrade of South West Healthcare's Warrnambool Base Hospital had not been delivered.

"The second stage of the Warrnambool Base Hospital can't be delayed any longer and we'll be watching to make sure every dollar is spent appropriately to ensure the project is on time and on budget," he said.

Completion of the upgrade to the Melbourne to Warrnambool train line was also needed, Mr Guy said.

Do you have a news tip or would like to comment on this story? Email mpatterson@warrnamboolstandard.com.au

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