Australian Govt invests $27m to upgrade TAS Ridgley Highway
The Australian Government is investing $27.2 million to upgrade the Ridgley Highway in Tasmania as part of its initiative to build Australia’s future.
This funding commitment will deliver upgrades to the highway to make it safer and smoother for truckies as well as other road users.
Upgrading this important freight route will enable it to accommodate larger heavy vehicles, ultimately supporting Tasmania’s economy.
“The Australian Government is committed to delivering nationally significant infrastructure projects that increase productivity and resilience, improve liveability and enhance sustainability.
“These new projects will provide a safe, efficient, reliable, and consistent road environment for Tasmanians and its visitors.
“We will continue to work in partnership with the Tasmanian Government to deliver these vital works,” Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.
The Ridgley Highway is a key transport link between the north-west and west coast region of Tasmania. It connects Burnie and the Murchison Highway, which is a critical link for mining, forestry and tourism in the western portion of the state.
This new investment will prioritise delivering safety improvements and works which may include intersections improvements, passing lanes, lane and shoulder widening, heavy vehicle driver rest areas, and active as well as active and public transport improvements.
This funding adds to the Australian Government’s $80 million commitment to the Freight Capacity Upgrade Program that is already delivering funding to strengthen and rehabilitate several sections of pavement along the Ridgley Highway.
Works are expected to begin in late 2027 and are estimated to be completed by mid 2030.
“Residents in the North West and West Coast often travel long distances for work, and to visit family and loved ones. Our industries and economy also rely on road transport, and every road user should be able to travel safely, whatever the reason for their journey.
“The Federal Labor Government knows the importance of investment in roads and infrastructure, especially in regions like ours. I know that road users who travel on Ridgley Highway will welcome this announcement and I look forward to seeing the work commence,” Senator for Tasmania Anne Urquhart said.
Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Big Rigs
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