The Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program will receive investments for 28 projects totalling $56.2 million the Federal Government has announced.
Improvements to the productivity and safety of heavy vehicle routes will receive a boost in regional areas that can now apply for funding to cover up to 80 per cent of the total project cost for the first time thanks to changes to program guidelines.
Supporting the safety and efficiency of heavy vehicles travelling on Australian roads was critical according to Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce.
“These projects aim to reduce road accidents involving heavy vehicles by targeting driver fatigue and making our roads more efficient for freight operators,” he said.
“The Coalition is investing more in regional roads than ever before as part of our record $120 billion ten-year infrastructure investment program,” said Joyce.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the investments had been made possible by strong economic management by the Liberal-National Coalition.
Now deep into the Federal Election campaign the claim, amid surging inflation as it hits 5.1 per cent, might have not lacked for credibility in previous years.
Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to making heavy vehicle routes and regional roads safer and more efficient.
“Better quality roads increases safety for our heavy vehicle drivers and increases Australia’s productivity,” he said.
“Improved safety and efficiency for freight operators also means better connected communities and safer driving conditions for all motorists.”
The Liberal and Nationals Government is providing more than $650 million through the HVSPP from 2013-14 to 2025-26, with an ongoing commitment of $65 million per year.
Research shows heavy vehicle crashes cost an estimated $4.64 billion a year.