Victorian Opposition pledges 110km/h speed limit for Princes corridor

The Victorian Liberal-National Coalition has announced a policy to increase the speed limit on the Princes Freeway and Highway between Melbourne and Colac from 100km/h to 110km/h if they win the upcoming state election in November. The proposal aims to modernize travel times for commuters, tourists, and freight operators who rely on this major western Victorian transport link. Opposition leader Jess Wilson described the move as a common-sense update that would bring the road into line with other major Victorian routes like the Hume, Calder, and Western freeways. The Coalition argues that the road has been significantly upgraded and duplicated in recent years, making it suitable for higher speeds. They suggest that the change will reduce travel times and ease congestion for residents in Geelong, the Surf Coast, and Colac. While the policy is intended to improve efficiency, it has sparked immediate debate regarding road safety and the practical benefits of such a change. The government and road safety experts are expected to scrutinize the proposal, particularly given the corridor's high traffic volumes and history of congestion. Voters will now weigh the promise of faster travel against potential safety concerns as the election campaign progresses.