Federal Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce has called on the Federal and Queensland Governments to prioritise and bring forward funding for upgrades of the Gin Gin to Rockhampton section of the Bruce Highway in his electorate of Flynn.
Mr Boyce said the Bruce Highway has developed into a national disgrace.
"This national Highway stretches from Brisbane to Cairns and is essential for thousands of Queenslanders who rely on this vital piece of infrastructure," Mr Boyce said.
"It's about time this Government invested in this critical highway. However, there needs to be a commitment that the stretch of Highway between Gin Gin and Rockhampton be prioritised and upgraded as soon as possible.
"At Benaraby just outside of Gladstone, rather than providing essential upgrades such as adequate turning lanes and associated infrastructure, the speed limit has been reduced.
"Quick fixes like this do not improve the safety of the highway for the local community or road users.
"Furthermore, the Labor Government's decision to reverse the 80:20 funding split to 50:50 in following Labor's infrastructure pipeline review in 2023 has proven detrimental to funding for our highway delaying much needed safety improvements.
"Thankfully, the Labor Government have heard our calls loud and clear and finally agreed to reinstate an 80:20 funding split for the Bruce Highway. Something that my Coalition colleagues and I have been calling on for years.
"The question must be asked of Labor given the importance of the Bruce Highway, why wasn't it identified as a priority for further funding sooner?
"Why has it taken two and a half years for the Prime Minister to start listening to community concerns about the Bruce Highway? Why has the announcement also conveniently been made in an election year?
"I will continue my fight for more funding for Central Queensland's patch of the Bruce Highway."
