The state’s peak motoring body, the RACV, says $1.2 billion is needed to fix key country roads. Four of the top 10 priorities are in the south-west, the Princes Highway west from Warrnambool to the South Australian border, the Hopkins Highway, the Hamilton Highway and the Henty Highway.

Long-suffering motorists have been complaining about these roads for years while watching other areas of the state, including metropolitan regions, receive major funding.

The fact that four major highways are in the top 10 is no surprise. It further validates the argument our roads have been under-funded by both sides of politics and levels of government.

It’s also no surprise there are concerns about country drivers being over-represented in the road toll.

The link between dilapidated roads and fatalities has not been proven but it’s a bow many draw.

RACV roads and traffic manager Dave Jones said it found country highways “to be in an unacceptable condition, posing a serious risk to public safety”.

The RACV research also found more than one third of regional Victorians were “dissatisfied” with how VicRoads managed its road network.

VicRoads chief executive officer John Merritt has been on a regional tour promoting an opportunity for motorists to provide feedback on how the organisation prioritises upgrades and goes about its maintenance.

While the lack of action in the past has been well documented and a potential reason to deter feedback, we have a chance to make a big statement.

The more people who document their frustrations, fears and trouble spots, the stronger the message and likelihood our voices will be heard.

The problem is, who knows about the feedback opportunity? VicRoads held a session in Portland, but none in Warrnambool, the capital of the south-west.

Corangamite Shire council which has long pushed for more roads funding, has been actively promoting the chance to give VicRoads advice.

But we need to do more. It’s important we take the time to provide the feedback via VicRoads’ website at engage. vicroads.vic.gov.au

It could be a decision that saves lives.