Bendigo’s Traffic Woes Signal Growing Pains for Residents and Local Economy

Bendigo drivers are facing longer commute times and heavier congestion as vehicle volumes surge on key routes, raising concerns about impacts on daily life and the local economy. Recent traffic surveys reveal that during peak hours, travel times along McIvor Highway and Marong Road have increased by nearly 25% compared to two years ago.

This worsening traffic situation coincides with Bendigo’s rapid population growth and economic expansion, making transport infrastructure a critical issue for residents, businesses, and public services. Without improvements, the city risks straining its capacity to keep pace with rising demand, affecting work commutes, access to education, and health services access.

Transport Challenges Hit Heart of Bendigo’s Communities

Residential areas such as Flora Hill and Kangaroo Flat report daily snarls that hinder residents’ access to essential services. Flora Hill residents express frustration with delays reaching La Trobe University’s regional campus. The university, which employs over 600 staff and supports thousands of students, depends on reliable transport links to maintain its role as a regional jobs anchor.
Similarly, patients and staff at Bendigo Health’s main hospital campus on Arnold Street encounter delays exacerbated by heavy traffic on Eaglehawk Road. This hospital is mid-way through a $250 million capital expansion project, which is projected to significantly increase patient throughput over the next five years.

Regional transport agencies and the City of Greater Bendigo have initiated programs like the Network Rhythm Bendigo trial, aiming to optimise traffic signals along crucial corridors. Yet community feedback suggests these measures are still falling short amid the broad impact of population and transport demand growth.

Statistics Underline Urgency for Infrastructure Investment

The Victorian Department of Transport’s latest report indicates the Greater Bendigo area saw a 15% increase in private vehicle registrations between 2023 and 2025, now exceeding 70,000 registered vehicles. Public transport usage remains low relative to car trips, with only 8% of total commuters using buses on key routes like Calder Highway.
Meanwhile, peak hour average speeds on Marong Road have dropped from 45 km/h in 2024 to 34 km/h in mid-2026, according to the city council’s 2026 traffic update. These delays translate into cumulative lost hours estimated at over 120,000 annually across Bendigo’s workforce, impacting productivity and personal time.

Cost estimates to upgrade major intersections, add dedicated bus lanes, and improve cycling infrastructure now range from $80 million to $120 million, a significant but necessary investment to support Bendigo’s continued growth without crippling congestion.

For residents and businesses, adapting to these traffic conditions means planning longer travel times, exploring alternative transport modes, or altering daily schedules. The City of Greater Bendigo recommends residents stay updated on upcoming roadworks and trial transport options through V/Line and local bus services, which are due for service reviews later this year.

The city is expected to release its comprehensive Transport Strategy update by September 2026, outlining priority projects and timelines aimed at addressing these pressing traffic issues.