The Albanese Government is investing in our truckies' safety by funding another four essential projects through the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) initiative.
This commitment of $3.6 million from the Albanese Government will ensure that more drivers travelling Australia's regional freight routes will have comfortable and safe facilities for their well-earned breaks.
The four funded projects include:
- New parking, toilet blocks and picnic shelters at the Kyeamba Rest Area between Yass and Albury.
- A new female toilet block at the Nhill Trailer Exchange in western Victoria.
- Construction of two new rest areas at Wiawera and Black Springs in South Australia, with each featuring space for four vehicles, sheltered tables and seating.
These amenities are being delivered as part of the $140 million HVRA initiative, which has now provided funding for 25 new and upgraded heavy vehicle rest areas.
Heavy vehicle drivers can suggest potential locations for rest stops via the Heavy Vehicle Rest Areas Survey.
The survey takes less than 5 minutes to complete and provides valuable insights to government for future projects to fund through the HVRA initiative.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"The Albanese Government has now funded 25 projects through the HVRA initiative, which is an enormous effort, and there's plenty more to come.
"Improving the quality and safety of Australian roads common goal with local and state governments, industry and Australian truckers.
"Experienced truckies know their routes like the back of their hand, so we're asking them to tell us where they want upgrades and where new facilities are needed."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm:
"Australian truckies keep the country supplied, fed and connected, so it's important that we have their backs.
"That's why we're partnering with state governments in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia to deliver these essential amenities.
"Whether you're in an office, on a farm, or behind the wheel, every Australian deserves the facilities to keep them safe at work.
"So, we'll continue doing our part, and investing in the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative is just one of many ways we'll make each drive a safer one."
Quotes attributable to Chair of the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Steering Committee Glenn Sterle:
"Fit for purpose facilities like the ones we're funding through Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative mean safer trips and a more productive transport sector.
"I'd like to thank the steering committee for working with the Government to identify projects which make a real difference to Australian truckies."
