The Australian and Queensland Governments have commenced construction on the Bruce Highway Safety Program, part of a $9 billion joint investment to improve safety across the corridor. In March, both governments announced an early works package targeting 16 high-risk sections north of Gympie.
Dylan Anderson
Projects Already Under Construction
Five priority projects are now under construction, with two more set to begin shortly. Six projects are under procurement, with three additional projects scheduled for procurement by mid-2025.
At Bauple, works include:
- Dedicated left and right-turn lanes and road widening at the Stratford Road intersection
- A new right-turn lane at the Brooks Road intersection
- Pavement widening between Chapmans Road and Stratford Road
Other ongoing projects include:
- Construction of a new all-vehicle rest area on the eastern side of the Curra Interchange
- Pavement strengthening near Hencamp Creek between Townsville and Ingham
Safety Improvements Focus
The early works package targets sections with high crash rates to reduce accident frequency and severity. Key safety upgrades include:
- Wide centre line treatments (road widening and audio tactile line marking)
- Pavement strengthening
- New overtaking lanes
- Additional rest areas
- Improved intersections
- Widening narrow bridge structures
Dylan Anderson
Timeline for Completion
The early works represent the first phase of the full program. Remaining projects will continue throughout 2025, with additional tranches to follow as part of the broader $9 billion commitment. Pavement strengthening at the Toomulla Intersection between Townsville and Ingham, and wide centre line treatment between Bowen and Ayr, will begin in the coming weeks. The work near Hencamp Creek is expected to be completed by the end of this month, with other projects scheduled for completion by mid-2026, subject to weather conditions.
Funding Breakdown
The Albanese Government is contributing $7.2 billion to the program, with the Queensland Government providing the remaining $1.8 billion.
Additional Information
Motorists are encouraged to use the QLDTraffic App for real-time traffic updates and travel planning during construction. More details about the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program are available at www.tmr.qld.gov.au/brucehighway.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
