The Australian Government has announced the release of a $38 million funding to jump start the early works package for the Central Queensland Beef Roads upgrade project.
Covering 218,000 square kilometres, the Central Queensland Beef Roads is a strategic road network that supports the movement of approximately $1.7 billion worth of freight and agricultural produce – in particular Australian beef – annually from inland areas to saleyards, processing facilities and ports across the region.
This network of roads also supports other industries including tourism, critical minerals and renewable energy.
The early works package was identified in partnership with local councils and industry stakeholders.
The works will address immediate needs by sealing and widening sections of the road network to provide all-weather access, improved productivity and safety – bringing significant benefits for all roads users, especially freight drivers.
“Queensland’s beef roads are as essential to the state as the cattle industry itself, which is why we’re getting on with delivering these critical upgrades.
“We know there is still work to do, but this first set of projects will make the roads wider, smoother and above all, safer for all road users.
“This is good for our nation’s freight productivity, good for central Queenslanders, and good for our truckies who use these roads every day,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said.
The early works package will include:
Construction on this package of works is due to begin in mid-2025 and be completed by mid-2027.
A 10-year investment strategy is being developed for the Beef Roads upgrade to identify short, medium and long-term priorities as well as guide future investment decisions in consultation with local councils, industry stakeholders and the Queensland Government.
The investment strategy is anticipated to be completed mid this year.
The $500 million Central Queensland Beef Roads project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments, each contributing $400 million and $100 million respectively.
Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Big Rigs