Michael Ferguson,Minister for Infrastructure and Transport
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is delivering job-creating infrastructure, as part of our $1.8 billion program over two years, which will deliver an estimated $3.1 billion in construction and support 15,000 jobs.
Confidence is key to our recovery, and by ensuring a consistent program of works, we are providing the construction and engineering sector with the assurance they need to invest and employ Tasmanians.
We're rolling out that program right now – earlier this year, we implemented changes to procurement requirements that enabled us to significantly accelerate the tendering of projects. This has allowed us to take a streamlined approach for $40 million across 12 smaller, simpler projects that could be delivered quickly to provide immediate stimulus.
Using this approach, we have already awarded the contract for the first of the projects on the Wynyard to Marrawah section of the Bass Highway, and the contract for the safety upgrade on Highland Lakes Road, at the 'Pub with Bo Beer' corner. More tenders will be awarded in coming weeks and months.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government has also committed another $40 million in new funding as part of our COVID-19 stimulus response, which will support:
- A $10 million upgrade to the Apsley River Bridge;
- A $15 million overpass at Leith;
- Improving Bridport Road, west of Dalrymple; and
- Upgrading local road connections to the imminent duplication of the East Derwent Highway.
We are also working hard with the Morrison Government to deliver infrastructure stimulus projects, with $34 million secured in Commonwealth funding for shovel-ready projects and safety upgrades.
In addition to all these new and fast-tracked projects, we are continuing to deliver on our existing program of works to maintain industry jobs in this and future years.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating, and we are working hard to support businesses and jobs as we recover and rebuild a stronger Tasmania.
