Crisafulli Government locks in new Barron River Bridge for Far North Queensland 

• Funding in next week’s State Budget will secure a new Barron River Bridge delivering safer, more reliable connectivity in the Far North.
• Delivers on a key election commitment after years of inaction and neglect under the former Labor Government.
• The funding matches the Australian Government’s commitment. 

Funding to be announced in the Crisafulli Government’s first Budget next week will ensure a new Barron River Bridge is built to deliver safer, stronger and more reliable connectivity between Cairns and the Tablelands.  

The $245 million investment matches the Australian Government’s commitment announced in April and will see a new bridge constructed downstream of the existing structure.  

It will include a separated pedestrian and cycling path, enhanced safety features, and a turnaround facility on the Kennedy Highway. 

This vital project will deliver long term accessibility for the people, businesses, and freight operators of Far North Queensland, addressing years of neglect and inaction under the previous Labor Government.  

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the investment would deliver the infrastructure Far North Queenslanders have been crying out for. 

“This is what real leadership looks like—after a decade of Labor neglect, we are delivering the infrastructure to keep Queensland moving,” Minister Mickelberg said. 

“This commitment cements full funding for the project and will allow detailed design and pre-construction works to begin. 

“We’re a Government of delivery. We do what we say we’ll do—funding it, building it, and delivering it. This is generational infrastructure that will serve the Far North for decades to come.” 

Member for Barron River Bree James said the funding commitment was a hard-fought victory for her community. 

“This bridge is more than infrastructure—it’s a lifeline for our communities, and we’re proud to be finally making it a reality for our region,” Ms James said. 

“I fought hard for this before the election, and I haven’t stopped since I was elected as Member for Barron River. We promised we’d deliver, and today we’re doing just that for the people of this region – this is the moment we’ve been waiting for. 

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering real results with the new bridge to help improve connectivity and safety for our key road link between Cairns and regional Far North Queensland.”