Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Darren Chester made a shock $10 million funding commitment for Indi road projects including cash to begin planning for a Rutherglen bypass on Thursday.

He said the Coalition was "dead serious" and backed both candidates, Marty Corboy and Sophie Mirabella, as suitable MPs and took another swipe at Ms McGowan.

"We are disappointed we lost the seat a few years ago and we are determined to win it back," Mr Chester said.

"The independents simply cash in on our good work.

"They are out their claiming credit for mobile phone blackspots and heavy vehicle programs.

"But they don't develop a single policy."

Mr Chester's National Party colleague and party leader Barnaby Joyce has been scathing about the value of independents in recent times.

He is battling to hold onto his seat in New England against former independent MP Tony Windsor.

Another ex-independent MP Rob Oakeshott is also attempting a political comeback in Cowper.

Mr Joyce told the National Press Club on Wednesday independents were "the front page of the Glee Club".

"The band is back together, offering us the same chaos that was brought to us at the last concert," he said.

Ms McGowan said the $10 million was taxpayers’ money coming back into Indi to create jobs and important infrastructure.

“Indi matters and is now a competitive seat," she said.

"As an independent, I will hold the government to this commitment."

Ms McGowan said for 10 years Rutherglen locals had expressed concerns about trucks driving through town and the serious safety issues this created.

“Diverting the trucks around town will make a huge difference to Rutherglen,” she said.

Rutherglen is also the hometown of former Nationals' state politician Ken Jasper who is urging party supporters to preference Ms McGowan ahead of Mrs Mirabella.

The $10 million funding package announced on Thursday includes $4 million each for the Kiewa Valley Highway and Great Alpine Road.