A safer Western Highway between Buangor and Ararat in western Victoria is being built, with major construction planned to start in November.
Works will proceed thanks to an additional $446 million joint investment from the Albanese and Carroll Labor Governments in the 2026/27 State and Federal Budgets to ensure the project will be delivered.
The upgrade will add a lane in each direction along the almost 12-kilometre stretch, which is expected to be completed by 2029.
Early works are already underway, paving the way for major earthworks.
New centre medians and safety barriers will significantly improve road safety.
The project’s design has been updated to make the road safer and more efficient.
The Western Highway is one of the busiest national undivided highways in Australia, and a critical freight and tourism route for western Victoria.
The upgrade builds on the section already duplicated between Ballarat and Buangor as part of the Western Highway Upgrade, bringing the total investment to around $1.17 billion.
This includes $970.9 million from the Australian Government and $195.8 million from the Victorian Government.
As stated by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“This dangerous section of road has seen far too many accidents and tragic fatalities. After years of delays, it’s time to get this done.”
As stated by Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Paul Hamer:
“This upgrade means a safer trip for the thousands of locals, tourists and truck drivers who rely on this road every day.”
As stated by Senator for Victoria Raff Ciccone:
“By upgrading this notorious stretch between Buangor and Ararat, the Federal Government, in partnership with the Victorian Government, is making day-to-day travel safer for motorists and freight operators.”
As stated by State Member for Ripon Martha Haylett:
“This is the number one project Ararat wants to see done, and I’m so glad we’re getting on with it.”
