The Federal Government will invest $6.4 million in seven new rest stops across Queensland
The Federal Government will invest $6.4 million in seven new rest stops across Queensland.
In a move that has been backed by the Australian Trucking Association, rest stops on the Flinders, Landsborough, New England and Gore highways will receive new parking bays and decoupling areas.
Federal Minister for Transport Anthony Albanese says the new areas will play a big part in improving road safety.
“This investment will go a long way towards reducing crashes involving driver fatigue,” Albanese says.
“Every year, more than 200 people are killed in road crashes involving heavy vehicles- 15-20 percent of all road deaths.”
ATA Chairman Trevor Martyn says the investment will mean drivers will be able to comply with fatigue laws.
“The work [of building the rest stops] will contribute to providing more and safer places for drivers to take their mandatory rest breaks or overnight sleep,” Martyn says.
QTA Chief Executive Peter Garske has also backed the investment, saying it is long overdue.
“Queensland has a large road network and is in desperate need of more rest stops for drivers,” Garske says.
“Any funding for Queensland’s roads is always welcome and this funding will supplement funds already announced by the State Government.”