Approximately $20 million will be invested by the Australian Government to upgrade the Landsborough Highway in Queensland, with federal funding formally approved for the jointly-funded project.
According to Federal minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester, this project will improve safety for all users travelling between Longreach and Winton.
“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 ageing surface and a number of safety issues.
“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,” Mr Chester said.
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said that the upgrade works will help support the region’s economy as well as 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.
“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,” Mr Littleproud said.
Mr Littleproud added that investing in upgrading these key arterial roads will help the development of industries in northern Australia – which contribute billions to the national economy – with the creation of jobs for the regions and cities as well as fostering new and emerging industries for the next generations.
“It’s a great example of the Government’s $600 million Northern Australia Roads Programme delivering for regional Queensland.
The Landsborough Highway – Longreach to Winton upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on an 80:20 basis.
Works on this project is expected to be completed by mid-2020.
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