Motorists who travel on some of Australia’s oldest and narrowest bridges will benefit from new Australian Government-funded upgrade and replacement projects.

The Australian Government in investing over $39 million towards 18 projects under of the Bridges Renewal Program, including at Falls Creek. This funding is part of the Government’s ongoing commitment of $85 million per year to the program.

The northbound bridge over Currambene Creek on the Princes Highway at Falls Creek will be upgraded to increase the maximum allowable vehicle loading from a HML Semi Trailer (45.5T) to a HML B Double (68T).

This project is co-funded with the NSW Government and will receive a total of $2.4 million for the upgrade.

The program provides funding to fix issues with bridges no longer fit for purpose, often involving the replacement of historic single-lane timber bridges with double-lane, modern concrete structures.

State, territory and local governments are encouraged to apply for funding from the program with applications accepted year-round.

For more information on the program, visit https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/local[1]initiatives/bridges-renewal-program.aspx.

Quotes attributable to Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:

“The Bridges Renewal Program funds the upgrade and replacement of bridges across Australia, to enhance access and improve freight through local communities.

“These projects will support local communities and holiday makers to travel in greater safety, and assist businesses to deliver and receive their products and services more efficiently.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips MP:

“The Princes Highway is the lifeblood of the South Coast, transporting good and services to and from our primary producing region.

“We need to get our economy back on track, and ensuring our roads and bridges can safely sustain local industry has never been more important.

“These upgrades on the Princes Highway at Falls Creek will also support our tourism industry – helping local farmers, strengthening supply chains, and supporting the local community.

“We know our roads and bridges have taken a battering this year, and the task to get them up to scratch is a long and expensive one.

“I am absolutely delighted to see this funding prioritised by the Albanese Government to help our long recovery from compounding natural disasters that continue to take their toll on public infrastructure.”