QLD $9 Billion Bruce Highway Safety Upgrade Begins

The Bruce Highway, Queensland's major transport artery, is getting a long-overdue safety overhaul as the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments kick off a massive $9 billion investment package. With immediate works starting between Gympie and Innisfail, this project marks a new era in safer, more reliable travel for regional and coastal Queensland.

Construction Starts on Critical Safety Works

A joint commitment of $7.2 billion from the Federal Government and $1.8 billion from Queensland has now translated into action, with $300 million allocated for early construction and planning.

The initial rollout includes 16 key projects:

Wide centre line treatments between Rungoo and Mourilyan
New overtaking lanes between Ayr and Brandon
Pavement and culvert strengthening at several locations
A new heavy vehicle rest area at Gin Gin

Construction is already underway on these safety-critical upgrades, with another seven projects entering design and planning phases.

Rockhampton Ring Road Secured with Extra $200 Million

In addition to the early works, the Federal Government has confirmed an extra $200 million to complete the Rockhampton Ring Road, bringing its total investment in the project to almost $1.4 billion. The Ring Road promises to ease traffic congestion, reduce flood risk, and improve access to key destinations in Central Queensland.

Voices from Government

Federal Minister Catherine King emphasised the importance of long-term planning:

"Enough is enough, and it’s time to fix this road which is why we’re coming together with the Queensland Government to get it done."

Queensland Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg welcomed the funding boost:

"Queensland deserves better than a second-class highway. We are getting to work with a focus on improving wide centreline treatment, narrow bridges, flood resilience, intersection upgrades and multi-use rest areas."

Early Works Construction Projects ($200M):

Curra Interchange rest area
Widening at Stratford Road
Safety upgrades between Chapmans and Stratford Road
Intersection works at Brooks and Barton Roads
Creek culvert and pavement upgrades at various points including Three Mile, Granite, Alligator, and Hencamp Creeks
Wide centre line installations and audio tactile line markings at Bootooloo Road, Pine Mountain Creek, Dean Road to Tully High, Aldridge to Poppi Road

Design and Planning Works ($100M):

Centre line treatments between Torbanlea and Gin Gin
New heavy vehicle rest area at Gin Gin
Safety improvements from Etna Creek to Waverley Creek, and Marian-Hampden Road to Exmoor Road
Overtaking lanes and centre line treatments from Ayr to Zinc Road and between Rungoo and Mourilyan

What's Next?

Full delivery plans for the $9 billion Bruce Highway Safety Package will be shaped with guidance from the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, working closely with both federal and state governments. The long-term aim: a safer, smoother highway that supports freight, tourism, and everyday travel for Queenslanders.