Funding for a $20 million to upgrade and widen 24.8km of the Landsborough Highway north of Longreach in Queensland has been approved by the Australian Government.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Darren Chester, said the project would make travel between Longreach and Winton safer for all road users.
“The Landsborough Highway is the main north-south route serving western Queensland, and I’ve seen for myself the poor condition of sections between Longreach and Winton, with an aging surface and a number of safety issues,” Mr Chester said.
“The Australian Government’s commitment to addressing these issues is just one way Queensland will reap the benefits of our record $75 billion investment in infrastructure nationwide, which is aimed squarely at helping unlock the potential of our regions in particular.”
Federal Member for Maranoa, David Littleproud, said the works would support the region’s economy and communities.
“These upgrades are an investment in the productivity and prosperity of western Queensland communities by building stronger road surfaces, wider lanes and better flood immunity — particularly at Dingo Creek and other low-level crossings,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Freight traffic is forecast to double on this route, which makes these works critical to the future success of the grazing and resources industries and the safe and efficient movement of freight.
“The industries of northern Australia, including those in western Queensland, contribute billions to our national economy, and investing in these key arterial roads means they’ll be able to continue developing — creating jobs in our regions and cities, and fostering new and emerging industries for generations to come.
“It’s a great example of the Government’s $600 million Northern Australia Roads Program delivering for regional Queensland.”
Works are expected to be completed by mid-2020. The Australian and Queensland Governments are funding the Landsborough Highway—Longreach to Winton upgrade on an 80:20 basis.
