Joint media release with the Hon Jenny Aitchison MP and the Hon Janelle Saffin MP
A region that has endured some of Australia’s most destructive flooding is getting roads built to match – with work now underway on a major upgrade to the Blacks Drain crossing on Tweed Valley Way at South Murwillumbah.
Blacks Drain crossing has been washed away three times – in February 1954, March 2017, and February 2022 – two during the most significant flooding events in the Tweed’s recorded history.
Each failure severed a critical link between local communities and the Pacific Highway, cutting off residents, businesses and emergency services when connection mattered more than anything else.
The upgraded crossing will feature stronger concrete pavement, improved pedestrian access, new traffic safety infrastructure and concrete slope protection. The result will be fewer road closures during future flood events and greater confidence for communities that rely on this route every day.
The joint investment by the Minns NSW Labor Government and the Albanese Federal Labor Government recognises this reality.
The Minns and Albanese Labor Governments have jointly committed more than $22 million to repair and strengthen essential infrastructure across Tweed Shire through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), including $9.39 million for betterment works through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package.
Up to 35 causeways and culverts across the shire are being upgraded as part of this investment.
The Blacks Drain site carries additional complexity due to critical underground water and sewer infrastructure that must be carefully managed throughout construction.
Works will be delivered by local contractors and Tweed Shire Council crews, with completion expected by late 2026, weather permitting.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain
“With work now underway at Blacks Drain crossing, the Tweed Shire can look forward to safer and more reliable road travel.
“These upgrades will help maintain a vital connection to the Pacific Highway during flooding events.
“The Albanese Government is investing in projects like this across the country to increase disaster resilience and preparedness.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Recovery and North Coast, Janelle Saffin
“We aren’t just repairing what was there before – we are investing in a stronger, more resilient crossing that gives our community the long-term confidence they deserve. It ensures that no matter what weather comes our way, the Tweed stays connected, strong, and moving forward together.
“As one of my own local roads, I know this stretch of the Tweed Valley Way well and am pleased to see this upgrade moving forward to keep our community safe and moving. This project is a fantastic example of the three levels of government working together to build back better.
“Roads in our region are lifelines that keep our communities connected.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison
“Australia is a land of extremes with seasons that can be harsh and unrelenting. North Coast locals knows that better than anyone.
“I know firsthand what floods do to communities. I’ve seen the anxiety that sets in as storm season approaches and the uncertainty of not knowing whether the roads will hold. Whether you’ll be able to get work, get your kids to school, or reach someone who needs help.
“The Minns Labor Government is determined to break that cycle by building infrastructure that’s fit for the environment it actually lives in. Roads and crossings that don’t just get repaired, but get built back stronger.
“This is about giving people the certainty and confidence they deserve as each season comes around.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot
“The Albanese Labor Government is helping the North Coast build back better, by repairing damaged infrastructure and roads while also making sure the region is more prepared for the future.
“As your local MP, I’m proud to be delivering funding to ensure that Tweed Valley Way is more resilient and less likely to have road closures following severe weather events.”
Quotes attributable to Tweed Shire Council Director Engineering, Tim Mackney
“This project is about building something that lasts.
“Every time this road goes under, the whole community feels it – so it’s incredibly important we get this right and deliver a crossing that stands up to the kind of weather we’re seeing more often.
“I’m proud of the work our teams have already done to stabilise the site, and I’m looking forward to seeing this long‑awaited upgrade finally take shape.”
