The Albanese and Carroll Labor Governments are making the Western Freeway safer for locals, visitors and freight operators with works beginning on a dangerous stretch of road near Ballan.

Works on the one-kilometre west-bound section at Pykes Creek Reservoir are now underway.

The existing stretch of road winds uphill, creating dangerous conditions and the need for drivers to reduce speed. 

The upgrade will realign and replace the Ballarat-bound lanes with two wider lanes delivering safer driving conditions and supporting a consistent 110km/h speed limit.

The road shoulders will also be widened, providing more space and better access to manage incidents for the 13,000 vehicles that use this stretch of freeway every day.

The upgrade will also include the installation of new safety barriers and line marking. 

The $21 million project is funded with $14.5 million from the Australian Government and contributions from the Victorian Government and the Transport Accident Commission.

The upgrade is expected to be completed by mid-2027, with speed reductions and lane closures in place during construction to keep roadside teams safe.

These works are in addition to the Albanese and Carroll Labor Governments’ $1.55 billion commitment to upgrade the Western Freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs.

The project further east will deliver approximately 30 kilometres of new lanes along the freeway and upgrade key interchanges to keep people moving across Melbourne’s west.

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

“Upgrading the Western Freeway is a long-term project. We’ve realigned Anthony’s Cutting, we’ve built the Deer Park Bypass, we’re investing $1.55 billion to fix the section between Melton and Caroline Springs and $100 million for the Brewery Tap Road intersection on the outskirts of Ballarat.

"This may be a smaller section, but these upgrades at Pykes Creek are still critical. They’ll get families home sooner and safer, and improve conditions for truck drivers along this important freight corridor.” 

Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Paul Hamer:

“The Western Freeway is a vital connection between Melbourne and Adelaide – that's why we’re upgrading this dangerous stretch of road at Pykes Creek.

“Wider lanes, new barriers and better visibility will make every trip along the Western Freeway safer.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hawke Sam Rae:

“Reducing road trauma is a key priority for our government, and our goal is simple: everyone on our roads should return home safely to their loved ones.

“This investment is a crucial step towards making this a reality and I’m thrilled to see these works are now underway.” 

Quote attributable to State Member for Eureka Michaela Settle: 

“This is about doing the work that needs doing to improve safety for every driver, rider and truckie on the Western Freeway.”