Labor has pledged a $7.2 billion upgrade to Queensland’s notorious Bruce Highway, one of Australia’s deadliest roads, if re-elected in the upcoming federal election.
Spanning 1,673 kilometers, the Bruce Highway connects Brisbane to Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville, and Cairns. The long-overdue upgrades aim to address the alarming safety concerns along the route, which claimed over 40 lives in 2024. The death toll and serious injury rates are up to five times higher than those recorded on major highways in New South Wales or Victoria.
This year alone, two fatalities have already occurred.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the funding as the first major policy commitment of Labor’s election campaign. The federal election is expected to take place by May 17, making this safety overhaul a central point in Labor’s re-election bid.
“Upgrading the Bruce Highway will save lives, ensure safer travel, and support Queenslanders,” Albanese said during the announcement.