Australia invests $181 million to upgrade Newell Highway freight route

The Federal and New South Wales governments have committed $181 million to a 14.9‑kilometre upgrade of the Newell Highway north of Moree. The project will install a heavy‑duty pavement, widen lanes and shoulders, improve centre‑line spacing, and upgrade intersections with protected right‑turn lanes. Additional works include better drainage, flood resilience, safer property access and upgraded bus stops.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the upgrade will address a history of crashes and make the route safer for “thousands of locals, tourists and key freight operators” while ensuring Australians can return home safely. Early construction is expected to start by mid‑2027, with the main contract awarded in 2028, enhancing reliability for freight and supporting local communities and industry.