Federal Budget boosts road safety in SA

Posted 13 May, 2021 Ellen Morgan

The Federal Government this week announced commitments in its 2021-22 budget, with $3.2 billion in funding going towards road infrastructure in South Australia.   Many of the projects the budget is set to fund are those RAA has long been advocating for, something Senior Manager of Safety and Infrastructure, Charles Mountain, said called for celebration. “We’re pleased to see the budget announcements for South Australia, with projects that we hope will see a reduction in road trauma, improved freight efficiency and more jobs for South Australians,” Mr Mountain said. So, what’s been announced, and when is it set to get underway? One of the largest funding commitments is $2.6 billion for the next stage of the North-South Corridor development from Darlington to Anzac Hwy. Detailed planning is already in motion for this project and stakeholders are being consulted. Construction is set to begin in late 2023.   Other projects RAA is pleased to see announced include the second stage of the Augusta Hwy duplication ($148 million), sealing the Strzelecki Track ($64 million) and the Port Wakefield overpass ($27.6 million). These upgrades are among many listed in the budget, all working towards the overall improvement of our road network, state-wide. “Investment in our metropolitan road network is important to ease congestion and facilitate safe and efficient movement for all road users and pedestrians,” Mr Mountain continued. Among the metro-based funding announcements is the junction upgrade at Marion Rd and Sir Donald Bradman Dr, a welcome amendment to the western road network, particularly as airport traffic returns. A range of regional network improvements to assist with freight movement have also been announced, including the Truro bypass project, which is set to receive $161.6 million. $5 million has also been allocated to the Greater Adelaide Freight Bypass planning study.   “We welcome the investigation into future improvements and changes to freight movement in South Australia,” Mr Mountain said. “Directing freight through new pathways that don’t navigate through our metropolitan roads is an important consideration for the future, both for road safety and a more efficient freight network.” Road access in the APY Lands is receiving funding too, with $12 million dedicated to an upgrade to the main access road on the Stuart Hwy to Pukatja. Bushfire-devastated Kangaroo Island will also receive much-needed funding, with the commitment of $32 million set to go towards the Kangaroo Island Road Safety and Bushfire Resilience package. “Support for our regions is critical [for] tourism, agriculture and regional development, so we look forward to seeing this set in motion,” Mr Mountain said.