Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz has recently unveiled significant new road safety measures aimed at communities directly impacted by recent bushfires.
A total of $300 million will be spent to upgrade key infrastructure for trucks around Australia. This money will be targeted at roads and truck rest stops that have been damaged by fires or were already in bad condition. Local councils will also be able to apply for funding to repair bridges that are deemed unsafe for truck drivers to cross.
“It’s been an incredibly difficult start to the year for so many of our regional communities, particularly those suffering from drought and bushfires,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said.
“Many bridges and roads were damaged in the fires which is why we are continuing to work closely with Local Councils and State and Territory Governments to prioritise and fast-track projects which can be delivered quickly.
“No matter where you live, the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government is investing in our road infrastructure to help Australians reach their destinations sooner and safer.”
Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz added: “Efficient freight networks are critical to the national economy and this funding forms part of the Federal Government’s commitment to keeping heavy vehicle drivers safe and improving our road network.”
He continued that the annual funding for these programs were increased by $50 million in the last federal budget.
Meanwhile, work begins on various road improvement projects that were required after the various flood events that also ravaged Australia in recent times.
Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads and Infrastructure, Chris Gulaptis, recently commented on an upgrade to Cessnock Road Testers Hollow. He said the upgrade included building a new two-lane road at a level about 1.5 metres higher than the existing road.
“The new two-lane road will include two-metre shoulders and will be around 900 metres long between Gillieston Heights and Cliftleigh, built alongside the existing road,” said Senator Sally Hughes about the ambitious upgrade.
Similar projects are underway or at the tender stage and expect to be completed within the next few years.