Councils step up to improving heavy vehicle productivity and safety across Australia

The Federal Government has announced that 93 road upgrade projects will share in a total of $132.5 million in federal funding under Round Six of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.

Acting Prime Minister, Nationals’ Leader and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the program has been successful at increasing the productivity and safety of heavy vehicles by building the capacity of existing roads and improving connections to the nation’s freight networks.

“One of the keys to the success of this program is the input of local knowledge to address local road issues. Of these 93 road projects, more than 60 per cent will be undertaken by local councils,” Mr McCormack said.

“By upgrading these routes and rolling out supporting infrastructure such as rest stops and parking bays, heavy vehicle operators across the country will enjoy safer, quicker and more productive journeys.”

Assistant Minister for Roads and Transport Scott Buchholz said the productivity improvements stemming from the more efficient movement of freight across the national road network would also provide all manner of industries with major benefits in terms of their ability to compete more effectively in domestic and international markets.

“The Australian Government’s commitment of $132.5 million in this round of the program will be matched by local councils and state and territory governments, delivering a total investment of at least $319 million towards these vital projects,” Mr Buchholz said.

More on the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program, including a full list of successful Round Six projects, is available at: http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure_investment/heavy_vehicle_safety_and_productivity.aspx