Planning is underway to improve flood immunity and resilience on the Moonie Highway south of Dalby, to improve accessibility during extreme weather.
Investigations will assess options to raise the road surface between the Condamine River and Myall Creek crossings to align with Loudoun Bridge, along with strengthening works between Broadwater Road and Duleen–Daandine Road, known locally as Long Swamp.
The planning will focus on practical measures to reduce the number and length of highway closures during extreme weather, improving reliability for communities, freight and industry in the Western Downs.
Specialist work will include detailed hydraulic modelling, innovative road surface design, environmental and cultural heritage assessments, and consultation with local property owners and Western Downs Regional Council to ensure the proposed upgrades meet community needs.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Moonie Highway was a vital link for communities and industries across the Western Downs.
“The Moonie Highway is a critical freight and community route, and improving its flood resilience will help keep people and goods moving during severe weather,” Mickelberg said.
“Planning this work now will support a safer and more reliable road network for the region into the future.”
Queensland Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, Ann Leahy, said the project would strengthen the region’s ability to recover after major weather events.
“Investing in flood immunity is about protecting communities and supporting faster recovery after disasters,” Leahy said.
“The Moonie Highway is a major interstate freight route, and improving flood resilience at key crossings will help ensure the region remains operational when it matters most.”
Community consultation is expected to commence in early 2026 to inform the planning process.
