The state government has announced a $25 million fund to help address defects on key freight routes on local council roads that are adjacent to major roads to Melbourne.

The fund, announced in the aftermath of the $9.7 billion Port of Melbourne sale, is designed to ensure Victoria has more stable freight routes.

Addressing tight intersections, gravel roads and low load bridges is critical to addressing high-productivity trucks and their transport routes.

Roads Minister Luke Donnellan announced the funding in Moolort.

“Our priority is ensuring that farmers can get produce from paddock to port safely and more efficiently,” he said.

“The lease of the Port of Melbourne means dedicated funding will go to regional and rural Victoria, helping create jobs and increasing investment in vital infrastructure.

“Stronger bridges, larger turning circles, sealed roads, and wider roundabouts are the practical projects we can undertake to improve agribusiness and improve country roads for all users.”