Bruce Highway Advisory Council to drive safety upgrades

The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its commitment to safer, more reliable roads for Queenslanders, with the Bruce Highway Advisory Council meeting at Gin Gin today.  

Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg, the Council unites regional voices and industry leaders to shape the future of Queensland’s most vital transport corridor. 

Within just three months of taking office, the Crisafulli Government secured a $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Package with the Federal Government - delivering the most significant investment in the highway in over a decade. 

Construction is underway on six of the 16 early construction works projects announced in March, with upgrades at one site between Ingham and Townsville already completed. 

These projects form part of the initial $300 million rollout, fast-tracked after the Government locked in the 80:20 funding deal for Queenslanders in January. 

At today’s meeting, the Crisafulli Government will provide an update on how feedback from previous BHAC meetings has directly shaped the program’s priorities and delivery strategy. 

The meeting will also focus on the development of a fatigue management strategy for the Bruce Highway - an issue raised consistently by regional members.  

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg reaffirmed the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to listening to regional Queenslanders and acting on their concerns. 

“The Bruce Highway is the spine of Queensland’s road network. That’s why we re-established the Bruce Highway Advisory Council - to ensure the people who live and work along the corridor have a real say in how it’s improved,” Minister Mickelberg said. 

“We’ve already seen the impact of this Council’s advice, with more overtaking lanes, intersection upgrades, and rest areas being prioritised in response to what members told us. 

“Tragically, 158 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads so far this year.  

“We know fatigue can be a silent killer on our roads, and that’s why we’re working with the Council to develop a best-practice fatigue management strategy that will save lives. 

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering where Labor failed. They let the previous advisory group fall by the wayside. We’ve brought it back, and it’s already making a difference.” 

Member for Callide Bryson Head welcomed the Council’s visit to his electorate and its focus on regional safety. 

“This is about listening to regional Queenslanders, who know the Bruce Highway best, but were ignored by the previous Labor Government,” Mr Head said. 

“The Bruce Highway is a lifeline for the Gin Gin community- keeping locals connected, supporting local businesses, and ensuring the town is accessible. 

“This is about working together to help save lives, support freight and flood resilience, and strengthen our communities.” 

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACT: Sarah Green 0467 746 523. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

The BHAC includes representatives from key industry bodies and six regional members from diverse backgrounds—civil construction, heavy vehicle operations, small business, and road safety advocacy—ensuring a broad and practical perspective on the challenges facing the Bruce. 

More information on the Bruce Highway Advisory Council is available at: https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/brucehighway/bruce-highway-advisory-council