The Federal Government has announced five new projects in the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Program to be delivered across Australia.
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The projects will be delivered on the Barrier Highway in South Australia, Newell Highway and Sturt Highway in New South Wales, and in Pingelly, Western Australia. The projects are part of a $17 million joint initiative between federal, state, and local governments, with the federal government contributing over $14 million.
“The Albanese Government’s $14 million investment in improved rest areas is another example of our action towards achieving Vision Zero—zero deaths on our roads by 2050,” said Federal Assistant Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Senator for Tasmania, Carol Brown.
“By investing in much-needed rest stops, we will ensure that our truckies spend less time on the roads and get home safely to their loved ones.”
They are funded through the second tranche of the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Program (HVRAP), which will provide $140 million of funding over 10 years.
The projects include the construction of new rest areas with dedicated slip and turning lanes, shelters, landscaping, and connecting footpaths, as well as the upgrade of existing ones from light to heavy vehicle classification with all-weather pavement, solar lighting, and amenities.
“The Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative aims to increase heavy vehicle user safety and productivity through vital new and upgraded rest areas across their journey,” said Chair of the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Steering Committee, Glenn Sterle.
“We want to keep our truck drivers and communities safe and these new and upgraded rest stops will help drivers reduce their fatigue as they keep goods moving across the country.”
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News of the Government’s latest investment in the HVRAP comes after it committed nearly $6.7 million to upgrade rest areas across the country.
The Heavy Vehicle Rest Areas Initiative is 10-year program that will see the Australian Government invest $140 million to support new and upgraded heavy vehicle rest areas. A Steering Committee has been established to ensure the road transport industry and drivers have a voice in the design of the initiative, with the committee being formed by five truck drivers, four industry representatives, and led by Senator Glenn Sterle.
The program will see the Federal Government provide 80 per cent funding for regional heavy vehicle rest areas and 50 per cent for urban projects.
Feedback can be given here on which rest areas need improving.