DELIVERING THE PRINCES HIGHWAY’S FAIR SHARE
The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government has committed $500 million to upgrade the New South Wales section of the Princes Highway, stretching from Wollongong to the Victorian border.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said South Coast communities have passionately advocated for the highway to receive its fair share of federal funding to address safety concerns along the corridor.
“This massive investment will be welcome news for the entire South Coast, which relies on the Princes Highway as a primary commuter and freight route. We will target our investment in order to improve safety, reduce travel times and support local industry and tourism,” Mr McCormack said.
“Decisions on priority projects will be in consultation with the New South Wales Government and be informed by the Princes Highway Corridor Strategy, the development of which was initiated by the Australian Government.
“Potential investment opportunities include road widening, safety upgrades, new overtaking lanes, duplication along key sections and town bypasses, so this really is exciting news for communities up and down the South Coast who will be able to get home sooner and safer.”
Federal Member for Gilmore Ann Sudmalis said the commitment is the culmination of many years of passionate community campaigning.
“This investment will also be a shot in the arm for the South Coast economy, with the project expected to support around 1,800 direct and indirect jobs,” Mrs Sudmalis said.
“The Princes Highway is a major route along the east coast of Australia, extending from New South Wales through Victoria and into South Australia.
“We are proud to be investing in this nationally significant corridor in order to support local communities, tourism and the South Coast agricultural, energy and timber industries.”
The project will be funded on an 80:20 basis in partnership with the New South Wales Government.
More information on the Princes Highway Corridor Strategy is available at https://infrastructure.gov.au/roads/princes-highway.