The federal government has unveiled its latest round of heavy vehicle rest areas, with six new projects announced.
A total $17.4 million joint investment between federal, state and territory governments will see six new projects completed under the fourth tranche of the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative.
In Maranoa Shire Council, Queensland, asphalt surfacing of an existing heavy vehicle truck stop area will occur at the Roma Truck Stop precinct, while a new heavy vehicle rest area will be built at Homestead West on Flinders Highway.
In New South Wales, a heavy vehicle rest area at Tomingley will be upgraded, while rest areas on the Sturt Highway at Ravensworth eastbound and westbound will be upgraded.
In Victoria, nine existing truck park locations in the Yarriambiack Shire will be upgraded, while the Stuart Highway rest area at Arcoona will be upgraded alongside the construction of a new rest area at Pimba.
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Over 10 years, the federal government will provide $140 million in funding for the initiative to build and upgrade heavy vehicle rest areas.
The initiative aims to improve road safety for heavy vehicle drivers and other road users through addressing the shortage of heavy vehicle rest stops in locations of need.
Projects funded through tranche four include the construction of new rest areas with facilities such as toilets and picnic areas, resurfacing, line-marking and bitumen sealing.
“These projects are another example of the federal government’s commitment to driver safety and supporting the road transport industry,” Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Steering Committee Chair Senator Glenn Sterle says.
“I am very proud that the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative is boosting heavy vehicle user safety and productivity through new and upgraded rest areas.
“We are steadfast in our commitment to keeping our freight operators and communities safe. These new and upgraded rest stops will help truckies manage their fatigue as they work hard keeping our country moving.”
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