Labor pledges $150 million to build interchange in north Melbourne

Source
By Lisa Visentin

Federal Labor is promising to splash $150 million to build a freeway interchange in Beveridge in outer north Melbourne, in an election pledge aimed at shoring up its hold on the rapidly-growing seat of McEwen.

The commitment to build the Camerons Lane Interchange linking with the Hume Highway in the growing township of Beveridge is part of an appeal to a diversifying electorate and a bid to win over voters in new housing subdivisions with the promise of jobs.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese is promising to build a $150 million interchange in Melbourne’s north if Labor wins the federal election.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese is promising to build a $150 million interchange in Melbourne’s north if Labor wins the federal election.Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Backbench MP Rob Mitchell holds the seat with a 5.3 per cent margin, but he suffered a swing against him in 2019 and the demographics of McEwen continue to change as new housing estates are built in Whittlesea and tree-changers move into Macedon and Woodend.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese said the construction would deliver up to 2,000 jobs and the completed interchange would ease traffic congestion for locals across Melbourne’s north.

“This interchange is essential to the future of this region: without it, future economic and
residential growth at Beveridge will be left at a standstill and the future of the region will be held
back,” Mr Albanese said.

“When complete, this project will help locals across Melbourne’s North spend less time on the
road and more time at home, as well as opening the door to the job opportunities of the future.”

The local Mitchell Shire Council views the freeway interchange as a key priority for the region, saying it is needed to support the construction of more than 30,000 new homes in the area and 20,000 jobs.

Mr Mitchell said the project would help the local economy recover from the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns.

“This interchange is the key piece needed to open a new chapter of development and prosperity for Melbourne’s north,” Mr Mitchell said.