Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has secured a critical victory for road users, welcoming additional funding for urgent upgrades to the Bruce Highway following her tireless campaign to address its alarming accident rate.
Ms Landry, alongside her LNP colleagues, launched a determined push to force the Labor Government to take action after record numbers of injuries and fatalities highlighted the highway’s deadly condition. Today’s announcement is a direct result of her relentless advocacy.
“This is a major win for every motorist who depends on the Bruce Highway,” Ms Landry said.
“I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure this government can no longer ignore the dangerous state of this vital road. Labor has turned its back on regional Australians for too long.”
However, Ms. Landry questioned why critical sections of the highway, such as the stretch from St Lawrence to Mackay, were excluded from priority upgrades, despite Koumala and Carmila being among the 15 most dangerous sections.
“While I welcome this funding, it is deeply disappointing that some of the most perilous areas continue to be overlooked. It’s clear the Prime Minister still doesn’t grasp the full scale of the problem.”
Ms Landry also slammed Labor for its history of neglecting the Bruce Highway, pointing to significant budget cuts.
“Labor inherited over $10 billion worth of upgrades for the Bruce, yet slashed $488 million from the forward estimates in their last Budget, leaving critical work unfunded when it was most needed. This sudden cash injection reeks of an election stunt rather than a genuine commitment to road safety,” she said.
She also highlighted Labor’s 2023 decision to scrap the 80:20 funding model for regional Bruce Highway projects, a move that left critical upgrades in jeopardy.
“In contrast, the Coalition is committed to restoring the 80:20 funding model and ensuring every section of the Bruce Highway receives the attention it deserves. Last year, we reaffirmed our pledge to fix this deadly national highway and protect regional communities,” Ms. Landry said.
Today’s announcement underscores Ms. Landry’s unwavering dedication to securing safer roads for Capricornia and holding Labor accountable for its neglect of regional Australia.
