Western Hwy Action Committee

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The Western Highway Action Committee (WHAC) was formed in early 2000 with members from local councils situated along the Western Highway corridor from outer Melbourne to the South Australian border.

 
The 2005 WHAC report was used successfully to inform both State and Federal Members and relevant government departments of the benefits of investing in upgrade projects for the Western Highway. In light of the 2005 report, approximately $290 million worth of funding was bought forward for the Deer Park Bypass to commence construction.

The Western Highway Action Committee Report 2007 (2045KB) provides an upgrade program for the Western Highway.

The report outlines:

1. the outcomes to date achieved by WHAC
2. highlights the importance of the Western Highway
3. description of key projects identified and why they are required
4. estimation of the net benefits from each of the key projects

On 25 July 2007, Council accepted the WHAC report and will provide in principal support to the WHAC for the identified upgrades along the Western Highway. 

Key Projects

In summary the key projects identified and assessed include:

1. Djerriwarrh Creek Alignment (consists of realignment of the highway around Anthony's cutting and removes a number of steep grades and curves and at grade intersections between Melton and Bacchus Marsh)
2. Deer Park to Melton Grade Separation
3. Leigh Creek to Woodmans Hill grade separations and upgrade to full freeway standard
4. sections of Highway Duplication between Ballarat and Stawell
5. fatigue stops and rest points along the Highway

WHAC Vision

In the short to medium term is it expected the Western Highway will:

1. have a reduced accident/fatality rate
2. provide an efficient route for freight transport throughout the corridor
3. provide communities throughout the corridor with a safe and effective connection

Over the longer term it is expected that the Western Highway will be of sufficient standard and access between Melbourne and the South Australian border to allow for a 100-110 km/h speed limit.