Labor has had 12 years to fix Victorian roads. Turning to ‘pothole populism’ now may be too late

The Victorian government is facing political pressure as deteriorating road conditions and widespread potholes become a central issue for voters. Opposition leaders are leveraging the poor state of infrastructure to criticize the Labor government's long-term management ahead of the November election.
Why it matters
Infrastructure maintenance is a critical indicator of government effectiveness and a frequent flashpoint in regional and state-level political contests.
No matter where you’re driving in Victoria – rural road, regional freeway or inner-city street – you’re bound to encounter a pothole, writes Benita Kolovos. Photograph: James Ross/AAP No matter where you’re driving in Victoria – rural road, regional freeway or inner-city street – you’re bound to encounter a pothole, writes Benita Kolovos. Photograph: James Ross/AAP Victoria Analysis Labor has had 12 years to fix Victorian roads. Turning to ‘pothole populism’ now may be too late Benita Kolovos Potholed roads are ‘devastating political advertising’ for the Victorian government – but Ben Carrol’s made them the focus of his campaign
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At a press conference to celebrate the sold-out NFL match played at Melbourne’s MCG on Friday, the Victorian premier, Ben Carroll , was heckled on one issue.
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