The Federal Government has announced that it will invest $467 million into safety and capacity improvements for the Bruce Highway as part of the 2024-25 Budget.
This funding includes $154 million for improvements along the Bruce Highway North corridor, and an additional injection of funding to support the delivery of a number of important existing Bruce Highway upgrade projects.
The government is also investing $15 million to plan for the upgrade of the Pine River Bridge.
This extra funding is set to help ensure people can get to their destinations safer and sooner.
Good transport links are vital to moving freight, building productivity and getting people home to their families safely.
The Federal Government has said that it also wants to build better connections between communities in a state which is as decentralised as Queensland.
Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, said that this is a Budget to back the Bruce.
“As a Queenslander I take absolutely no convincing that this is the right road to support and the right thing to do,” Mr Chalmers said.
“The Bruce is a crucial part of Queensland and that makes it a crucial part of our national economy.
“We are getting more money for the Bruce so it can get more Queenslanders and more of our produce safely to their destination.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the government is working for all Australians to deliver significant infrastructure that increases opportunities and connections, builds communities, and improves safety.
“The Bruce Highway is a vital connection for the state and we want to ensure the work is properly funded and projects are delivered,” Ms King said.
“We are working for all Australians to deliver significant infrastructure that connects communities, stimulates jobs and builds the future of our nation.”
Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm, said that the Bruce Highway isn’t just a major commuter and tourist route, it’s also a crucial freight link between Queensland’s regional production areas and the state’s coastal ports.
“Upgrading the Bruce Highway is a top priority of our government, and this extra $467 million is a prime example of our commitment to improving the overall safety of the Bruce Highway, providing locals and visitors to the regions with a safer and more pleasant journey.”
Image: RMHillphotography/shutterstock.com
