The Albanese and Minns Governments are building infrastructure back better in our region to make our community more resilient to natural disasters.

Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips MP, and Member for South Coast Liza Butler MP are thrilled to announce that in the Shoalhaven, the Albanese and Minns Governments are delivering $5,211,897 in funding for two projects through the jointly-funded Infrastructure Betterment Fund.

• $4,447,974 will be provided to improve 4.9km of Illaroo Road North Nowra, from West Cambewarra road to Browns Mountain Road. The funding will be used to stabilise the road and provide consistent pavement for sections of the road, this will dramatically increase the life expectancy of the road.

• $763,926 will be provided to make better the Basin Walking Track in St Georges Basin. The funding will be used to install over 5km of walking track and raised boardwalks, making the walk safer and more accessible.

The funding will be provided to Shoalhaven City Council and will be used to improve both these pieces of infrastructure and ensure they are more resilient into the future.

The Infrastructure Betterment Fund is focused on building back essential public assets, such as roads, bridges and drainage impacted by the storm and flood events in 2021 and 2022, as well as improve damage caused by the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires.

These crucial assets will be repaired to a more resilient standard that can better withstand future natural disasters, while also delivering associated economic, social and productivity benefits. This funding will improve Illaroo Road and the Basin Walking Track and make sure that they are more resilient into the future.

For more information, including the full lists of successful projects, visit the Infrastructure Betterment Fund website.

Quotes attributable to Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips MP:

“I’ve fought hard for funding to fix local roads– this funding will ensure that Illaroo Road is stronger and more prepared in the event of future natural disasters or extreme weather.”

“Locals use this road every day, and it is important that it is not only maintained, but improved – I am happy to provide funding to improve Illaroo Road.”

“I’m really pleased that The Basin Walking Track will become more accessible and safer so locals can continue to enjoy this wonderful walk.”

Quotes attributable to Member for South Coast, Liza Butler MP:

“I am delighted to see the Federal and State governments providing funding for both these projects. Our region has suffered heavily through floods, fires and droughts, this funding stream is so important to help Shoalhaven City Council to build back better.”

“I look forward to seeing these projects completed, and I thank the Albanese Government and the Minns Government for making this funding a priority.”