Road issues and potholes are some of the most common topics we hear about. Whether you want to report a problem, understand who’s responsible, or learn how we prioritise repairs, these FAQs explain how we manage and maintain our local road network across the Peninsula.
It depends on the road. The Shire manages around 1,450 km of sealed local roads and 373 km of unsealed roads, mostly residential streets. Most major roads, highways and freeways are managed by the Department of Transport and Planning (VicRoads).
If it’s on a Shire-managed road, report it via our online form, by calling 1300 850 600 or via Snap Send Solve.
If it’s a State-managed road, report it directly to VicRoads. Not sure? Let us know and we’ll pass it on.
Potholes can reappear when there are deeper structural problems in the road base or ongoing water damage.
Temporary patches make the area safe but may not last in areas of high traffic until a full reconstruction or resurfacing is done.
Permanent repairs take more time, resources, andgood weather. Patching is often used as a temporary safety measure until conditions allow for a long-term fix. We aim to deliver durable, lasting repairs wherever possible.
Cold, wet conditions sometimes make it difficult to carry out lasting repairs. Asphalt doesn’t bond well in these conditions, so we often use a ‘cold mix’ as a longer-lasting fix until warmer, drier weather allows for more durable work.
We inspect and prioritise reported potholes on local roads based on their severity, safety risk, and location. Urgent issues are fixed first. Some repairs take longer if traffic management, dry weather, or coordination with other works is required.
On State-managed roads, repair timeframes are set by VicRoads, but we continue to advocate for faster response times.
We use a risk-based approach that considers road conditions, traffic volumes, safety concerns, location (e.g. near schools or hospitals), community reports, and value for money. Resurfacing before major damage sets in helps reduce long-term costs.
Learn more about our road resurfacing and rehabilitation program.
We grade unsealed roads regularly, and more often in high-use areas. Weather has a big impact—heavy rain or long dry periods can cause rapid wear. If your road needs attention, please let us know.
In general, if an unsealed road doesn’t meet the criterion — where more than 30% of the surface has defects deeper than 50 mm — an additional grading is scheduled to restore its condition.
Learn more about our road grading program.
Yes.
We maintain roadsides and verges primarily for safety, such as keeping sightlines clear at intersections. Vegetation may be managed less often outside built-up areas.
Road drainage is essential to prevent flooding and road damage.
We maintain drains, pits and culverts as part of our road management program, prioritising areas with known flooding or erosion issues.
All roadworks, whether done by contractors or Shire crews, must meet strict quality standards.
We supervise works closely, audit completed jobs, and hold contractors to account through performance clauses in their contracts.
We’ve significantly increased our annual investment in road renewal — currently $5.3 million per year.
We’re also advocating strongly to the Victorian Government for higher standards and more investment in State-managed roads across the Peninsula.