186 new projects to replace or upgrade bridges around Australia have been announced under round three of the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program.
As part of the program, 201 projects are underway or completed across Australia.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Darren Chester, announced the Australian Government would fund the replacement or upgrade, and $162.53 million would be provided to fund round three of the Bridges Renewal Program.
“The bridges renewal program gives local, state and territory governments the support they need to replace and upgrade key bridges,” Mr Chester said.
“This new funding is in addition to the $216 million already committed under the first two rounds of the program, which has seen 201 bridge projects being upgraded or completed.
“The upgrade of these bridges will improve driving conditions for residents and local freight operators, by delivering safer and more productive bridges that are fit for purpose.
“The Bridges Renewal Program forms part of our $75 billion infrastructure investment plan, which is delivering the infrastructure Australia needs to support metropolitan and regional areas, and to remain competitive in a global market.
“The Australian Government’s financial commitment in this round will be matched by successful proponents, delivering a total investment of at least $345 million towards upgrading bridges.
“To allow for a wider distribution of projects, the Australian Government’s contribution under round three has been limited to $5 million per project.
“The Coalition Government has identified bridge upgrades and replacements as a national priority, and committed $420 million over five years from 2015–16 to 2020–21, with an ongoing commitment of $60 million each year thereafter.”
A full list of successful round three projects is available at infrastructure.gov.au/bridges.
