The Federal Government has launched a new $150 million Remote Roads Upgrade Pilot
Program.
The trial program will target unsealed roads throughout remote areas, with local Councils to be offered between 80% and 100% of funding to upgrade them.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the goal of the funding is to improve safety in previously neglected parts of the country. Works to be funded include resurfacing, removing dangerous corners and managing vegetation.
Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster said the funding will make a measurable difference for many people throughout Mallee and has been an ongoing concern.
“The Government recognises local government often bears the brunt of the significant costs of upgrading rural and regional roads. We are stepping in to back councils to be able to undertake these crucial works,” Dr Webster said.
“Even the most remote people in our community should be able to easily and safely access their local schools, shops, places of work and places of worship".
Deputy Prime Minister Joyce said regional towns are the lifeblood of the nation, and every Australian deserves safe and efficient roads regardless of where they live.
“This is not about sealing roads; it is about making them safer. It is about putting down gravel to stop parents from getting bogged in the rain when they drive their kids to school; it is about removing dangerous corners," he said.
"Many of these remote roads haven’t been touched since the Great Depression.
“This new funding will support our existing record investment under the Government’s 10-year, $110 billion nationwide infrastructure plan.”