The long-promised sealing of the Strzelecki Track is well underway, with the first 50 kilometres of works open to traffic, and further funding committed in this week's Federal Budget towards the remaining sections, supporting approximately 220 jobs.
The sealing of the 472 kilometre Strzelecki Track, funded by the Morrison and Marshall Governments, will increase outback prosperity, productivity and road safety.
The Marshall Liberal Government funded $10 million to seal Stage 1, the first 50 kilometres of the Strzelecki Track, immediately north of Lyndhurst.
The Morrison and Marshall Governments are jointly funding (on an 80:20 basis) $125 million, for Stage 2 Sealing of the Strzelecki Track.
An additional $64 million for sealing of the Strzelecki Track was announced by the Australian Government in the 2020-21 Federal Budget towards completely sealing the full length of the track.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Corey Wingard, said this week's additional commitment by the Federal Government will help to support jobs and regional communities in the north of the state.
"The Strzelecki Track is a vital supply link for major oil and gas facilities located near Moomba and an essential transport corridor for outback communities, tourism and pastoralists," Minister Wingard said.
"Unsealed roads contribute to higher direct freight costs, increased supply chain costs and the likelihood of accidents.
"It is great that local small and medium companies have been able to partner with us to fix this crucial route.
"Pavement rehabilitation works on the first 50 kilometre section were completed by South Australian company T&J Constructions, with sealing works completed by Downer EDI.
"The Morrison and Marshall Governments are investing in our regional roads and infrastructure to deliver safer, smoother journeys and to support and create jobs."
Additional pavement widening and shoulder sealing of the previously-sealed 24 kilometre section now means a total of 74 kilometres of sealed road is open to traffic to improve travel reliability and efficiency.
Santos Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Kevin Gallagher said the funding commitments from the Australian and South Australian governments will grow jobs and encourage more development in regional South Australia.
"Each year hundreds of trucks with equipment and supplies for the Santos operated Moomba Gas Plant and surrounding gas fields are sent via the Strzelecki Track," Mr Gallagher said.
"The conditions of the track can vary widely causing delays and costly maintenance for the operators of the vehicles and damage to the equipment they carry.
"The sealing of the track will ensure one of Australia's great inland roadways is safer to travel for freight and logistics, tourists and pastoralists. This will increase productivity and trade and bring benefits to all users and communities in the region."
Pre-construction activities for the next two packages of works, a 10 kilometre section south of Innamincka and a 93 kilometre section south of Moomba to the Strzelecki Creek crossing are underway.
On ground construction is expected to commence in June 2021, weather permitting.
Sealing the Strzelecki Track will deliver multiple benefits for users including maximising:
- Days the Strzelecki Track remains open for use by industry and the community.
- Efficiency of travel that reduces wear and tear on vehicles.
- Catchment area and economic output for industries using the Strzelecki Track.
