Big Build Roads begin planning stage for Brewery Tap Rd intersection upgrade

Upgrades to the intersection that connects Brewery Tap Road and Old Melbourne Road to the Western Freeway in Warrenheip is a step closer to reality as planning gets underway, and the community is being invited to have their say and help shape options for the project.

The Albanese Government committed $100 million towards planning and early works for the Western Freeway and Brewery Tap Road Intersection Upgrade, which is set to improve safety and traffic flow at the notoriously dangerous intersection.

“Brewery Tap Road has been a dangerous intersection for a very long time, but it has taken a Federal Labor Government to address that and get started on fixing it.

“We’ve committed $100 million to this upgrade, and the first critical step is engaging with the community and stakeholders about what should be considered in the planning to ensure we deliver the best outcome for the community.

“We had a decade of inaction and lack of investment in Ballarat under the former Coalition Government. By comparison, the Albanese Government is getting on with the job of making our roads more efficient for freight and business, and safer for our community,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government and Member for Ballarat Catherine King said.

Project map (source: Victoria's Big Build)

Big Build Roads is seeking feedback from the community to help inform project planning. Interested community members can make a submission through Engage Victoria until 8 March 2026.

Feedback gathered will be used to better understand problems and challenges at the current intersection as well as the community’s views on safety and traffic flow.

Stakeholders including the City of Ballarat and adjacent businesses will also be asked to contribute to the planning process.

Planning works are already underway, with key activities including developing a project design, detailed traffic analysis and modelling, and on-site investigations to gain a clear picture of the area. Planning works will also be used to inform design, cost, and timeline of the upgrade.

Throughout the planning period, traffic control measures including temporary lane closures and reduced speed limits may be in place as needed.

“Locals in Warrenheip and across Ballarat know just how dangerous this intersection can be, which is why it’s so important they have their say as we take this next step toward delivering a safer, better connection to the Western Freeway.

“We thank the community for their patience while planning and investigations get underway, because this is an important step in delivering this upgrade that will make everyday trips safer for local families and businesses,” State Member for Eureka Michaela Settle said.

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Victoria’s Big Build – Big Build Roads (1, 2); Engage Victoria