The Queensland Government has announced the release of 22 new construction contracts as part of the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program (BHTSP).
The package includes five construction procurement and 17 design contracts to accelerate delivery of safety works along priority stretches of highway between Gympie and Cairns and builds on early progress in the program, which is funded on an 80:20 basis between the Australian and Queensland Governments.
The program is already gaining pace, with eight projects completed, 17 underway and another 13 construction projects rolling out from early 2026.
“We’re keeping the momentum up with 22 new contracts moving to market to boost safety along the Bruce Highway,” said Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg.
“We told Queenslanders we are committed to fixing the Bruce and works are already making a real difference for motorists, regional communities and freight operators between Gympie and Cairns.”
Dedicated designer and constructor panels have been established for the BHTSP to streamline procurement, accelerate delivery and ensure value for money. The 22 new contracts will include:
- More than 100 kilometres of wide centre line treatments
- 50 kilometres of pavement strengthening and new overtaking lanes
- Five narrow bridge upgrades in North Queensland
- Road widening and audio‑tactile line marking improvements south of Miriam Vale
- Resurfacing works between Maryborough and Gin Gin
- Upgrades to multiple intersections and rest areas.
Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Senator Nita Green said regional Queenslanders understood how critical the Bruce Highway was.
“Regional Queenslanders know just how critical the Bruce Highway is for connecting our communities, supporting our industries and getting people home – these upgrades will help ensure safety,” Senator Green said.
“The Albanese Labor Government is connecting and protecting the Queenslanders who drive the Bruce every day.”
State Member for Burdekin, Dale Last said the 80:20 investment was delivering infrastructure for regional Queensland.
“With every dollar in this program invested outside the South East Corner, we are building the infrastructure regional Queensland needs to support our growing population,” Mr Last said.
We said we would deliver an upgraded Bruce Highway in an 80:20 split with the Commonwealth, and we are getting on with delivering it.”
Contractors will be appointed progressively from April, with construction to follow, the State Government confirmed.
Further details are available at https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/business-with-us/tenders-and-contracts/tenders.
For more information about the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, visit https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/brucehighway.
