A new report says billions of dollars has been squandered in the last decade on road projects in marginal electorates to the detriment of our cities – where the infrastructure is actually needed.

The report, from the Grattan Institute, says many of the projects went ahead without proper scrutiny. Many of the roads can be found in NSW and Queensland – which have more swinging seats than the other states.

As an example, the report says in Queensland, the Commonwealth spent almost 50% more on transport infrastructure than in Victoria.

Interview with report author, Marion Terrill.