The Albanese and Crisafulli governments continue to deliver safety upgrades on the Bruce Highway, with construction underway on a 22‑kilometre stretch between Pine Mountain Creek and Deep Creek, north of Marlborough.

The works aim to make the highway safer and more reliable through Central Queensland by widening the highway, improving wet weather resilience and providing a smoother driving experience.

The works are part of both the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program (BHTSP) and the $1 billion Bruce Highway Safety Package.

The BHTSP, announced early last year, is gaining pace, with 8 projects completed, 19 underway and another 16 construction projects rolling out from early 2026.

The Australian Government has committed $7.2 billion to the BHTSP with the Queensland Government providing the remaining $1.8 billion.

Every dollar of the BHTSP funding will be spent between Gympie and Cairns.

The safety upgrades between Rockhampton and St Lawrence include road widening, wide centre line treatments, audio‑tactile line marking, pavement strengthening, targeted intersection upgrades and drainage improvements.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“The Australian Government’s investment in the Bruce Highway is focused on improving safety and reliability along this critical route. 

“In partnership with the Queensland Government we are undertaking these safety works to reduce accidents and crashes while supporting freight and tourism along the Bruce Highway.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg:

“The Crisafulli Government is focused on making the Bruce Highway safer and more reliable for Queenslanders.

“The Bruce Highway is the backbone of our state’s transport network, and these upgrades will improve safety and strengthen connections for everyone who travels this stretch.

“Every life lost on our roads is one too many – these upgrades are about creating more reliable roads and helping Queenslanders get home safely.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green:

“We’re delivering the critical safety upgrades needed between Rockhampton and St Lawrence to ensure everyone can return home safely to their loved ones.

“As we continue to see growth across the region, these upgrades are a big win for providing a safer, more reliable driving experience across Central Queensland.” 

Quotes attributable to Member for Mirani Glen Kelly:

“These works will make a real difference for locals, freight operators and tourists travelling between Rockhampton and St Lawrence.

“This stretch of the Bruce Highway carries heavy traffic and plays a vital role in keeping Central Queensland connected, so targeted safety upgrades like these are essential.”