The NSW Nationals in the federal government are investing a further $40 million for upgrades to bridges on regional roads to keep freight moving and supply chains open while creating more jobs in our regions.
In a boost for the freight industry, the government will inject an additional $10 million each year for the next four years into the Bridges Renewal Program (BRP), increasing annual funding to $95 million.
Projects eligible for funding include replacing and widening bridges, strengthening existing structures, and upgrading floodways to bridges.
With more than 85 per cent of projects funded under the BRP located in regional Australia, this additional funding will further improve our regional roads and keep regional communities connected.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the extra funding would support more projects and jobs while boosting regional industries.
“To make our country as strong as possible as quickly as possible we must support the growth of the industries that drive our economy,” Mr Joyce said.
“The Nationals recognise that many of these industries are in regional Australia, including the mining and agricultural exporting businesses that help pay for the services all Australians rely on.
“Building new bridges and upgrading existing structures will strengthen our freight network and ensure valuable commodities continue flowing to international and domestic buyers.
“Our additional funding commitment will strengthen regional businesses and our economy, create local jobs, and improve safety for freight drivers and regional communities.
“This further demonstrates how our government is getting the job done by delivering the infrastructure needed to improve regional roads that were neglected and left to deteriorate under Labor.”
Since the Bridges Renewal Program commenced in 2015-16 it has supported 730 projects, of which 495 have been completed.
The Government’s additional $40 million investment brings the total commitment under this program to nearly $900 million.
For more information and to apply: https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/resources/brp-hvspp/index.aspx
