The completed project will deliver nine daily services and allow new VLocity trains to run at 130km/h.
“Incredibly, Labor has been promising additional services on regional lines without even ordering the required rolling stock,” Ms Ryan said.
“The 2022-23 state budget must guarantee this order goes ahead as soon as possible so these trains can come on line without further frustrating delays.”
Ms Ryan said under questioning at Parliament’s Public Accounts and Estimates Committee late last year, the Department of Transport confirmed the government had not yet ordered the rolling stock.
While not revealing what was in the budget, a government spokesperson dismissed the scare campaign.
“The Andrews Labor Government is upgrading every regional passenger line, meaning Victorians can look forward to added services, reduced travel times and new and upgraded trains, once the Shepparton line upgrade is complete,” the spokesperson said.
“The Victorian Liberal Nationals are known for its legacy of cuts – whether it be rolling stock or infrastructure, you can guarantee the Coalition will not prioritise regional Victorians.”
State Member for Shepparton Suzanna Sheed said she was not concerned about the full rail upgrade she fought for being delivered.
Ms Sheed said mental health facilities at Goulburn Valley Health and a mother-baby unit were also high on her list.
Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell called for the budget to go further than rolling stock and include the commitment of the Victorian Government’s share of the Shepparton bypass, full redevelopment of GV Health, the Shepparton sports stadium redevelopment and infrastructure to support the hosting of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
“The 2022-23 state budget to be handed down by Treasurer Tim Pallas on Tuesday must include funding for several priority infrastructure projects in the Shepparton electorate,” Ms Lovell said.
She said the budget was the chance last for Labor to fund the projects before the November state election.
