Coalition rescues WA roads left in limbo by Labor
16th December, 2013
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss and Assistant Minister Jamie Briggs today announced the Australian Government will provide over $480 million to fund two major Western Australian projects left unfunded by the previous Labor government.The Coalition Government will provide, on budget, funding for two projects that under Labor were contingent on the failed mining tax – namely the Great Northern Highway (Muchea to Wubin project) and the North West Coastal Highway (Minilya to Barradale).
“Since forming government the Coalition has been focused on cleaning up Labor’s mess,” Mr Truss said.
“Despite the former Regional Investment Fund being bankrupt due to Labor’s dud mining tax, the Coalition will now pick up the pieces and work with the state government to deliver these important projects.
“Today’s announcement is another clear example of the Coalition’s commitment to infrastructure and the priority we place on it as part of our plan to drive strong economic benefits for our major cities and regional areas.”
The funding announced today is now fully secured and budgeted, including:
* Great Northern Highway – Muchea to Wubin - $307.8 million; and
* North West Coastal Highway – Minilya to Barradale - $174 million.
The Great Northern Highway upgrade between Muchea and Wubin will include realignment work, road widening, the provision of additional overtaking lanes and intersection upgrades.
The North West Coastal Highway will be upgraded between Minilya and Barradale with a package of works funded to upgrade bridges, strengthen pavement and widen the road.
Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Jamie Briggs said despite economic and fiscal challenges, the Coalition had a very significant platform of projects to get underway.
“The Australian Government recognises that transport infrastructure in Western Australia is essential to the prosperity of not only the state, but also the wellbeing of our national economy,” Mr Briggs said.
“This announcement is good news for the state’s motorists and freight transporters. With guaranteed investment figures like these, you really don’t have to look too far to find great examples of the work this Government is doing to improve roads and freight transport in Western Australia.”
[ENDS]
