The Albanese and Carroll Labor Governments are getting on with a jointly funded $175 million upgrade to roads across Wallan, north of Melbourne.
The Watson Street Interchange Upgrade is now more than halfway complete and due to open six months early in mid-2027.
The new full diamond interchange at the Hume Freeway will deliver more direct connections to Wallan and the Wallan East industrial precinct.
The Northern Highway Intersection Upgrade is also on track to finish six months early and will deliver:
- Additional lanes on Northern Highway in both directions,
- A second right-turn lane from Watson Street towards Wallan, and
- Improved walking and cycling connections.
These works will add capacity in time for when the Watson Street interchange opens.
Together, these upgrades will deliver safer, more reliable journeys for Wallan families, businesses and freight operators.
The projects are supporting more than 1,100 jobs during construction.
$90 million has been invested by the Australian Government and $85 million from the Victorian Government.
Both north-facing freeway ramps remain closed until mid-November, and drivers should allow up to 20 minutes of additional travel time.
Quote attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"These major upgrades will make it easier and safer for locals, families, businesses and freight to get around Wallan, with better connections to the Hume Freeway and less time spent in traffic."
Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Paul Hamer:
"This is a significant investment in Wallan that will ease congestion, improve safety and deliver more reliable journeys as Melbourne's north continues to grow."
Quote attributable to Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell:
"The investment in these projects is something we have been waiting for.
"Together we have patiently endured the roadworks and for these to delivered early is a welcome reward for our community."
Quote attributable to State Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence:
"These important projects are on track to be delivered ahead of schedule - because Victorians deserve better roads, sooner."
Quote attributable to State Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage:
"We're getting on with the job - delivering these critical projects six months early to make life easier for families in Wallan."
