News
20 August, 2025
A $20M road tour
THE State Government has reaffirmed its $20 million commitment to improving the Brisbane Valley Highway, with Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Honourable Brent Mickelberg, recently touring the region’s roads.
The funding is intended to enhance safety and connectivity along the heavily trafficked highway, with planned upgrades including shoulder widening, pavement improvements, and intersection treatments.
During the tour, State Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington and Minister Mickelberg met with Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt, highlighting the importance of working collaboratively for impactful outcomes.
“This is a critical moment for our community,” Ms Frecklington said.
“With Minister Mickelberg’s visit and the $20m secured for upgrades, we are delivering real outcomes. Not just election promises, but tangible safety improvements that residents, freight operators, and emergency services rely on daily.”
Mayor Wendt described the visit as “a great pleasure,” noting the Brisbane Valley Highway has featured on RACQ’s list of Queensland’s most unroadworthy roads for many years.
“In 2024 its ranking worsened, reflecting deteriorating conditions, design limitations and a lack of overtaking lanes,” he said.
“We are determined to see the Brisbane Valley Highway lifted off RACQ’s Unroadworthy Roads list and brought up to a standard that reflects the needs and safety of our community.
“We are grateful for the Government’s engagement and investment to date, and for Ministers visiting Somerset to see these issues firsthand.”
The Crisafulli Government committed $20 million towards the Brisbane Valley Highway during the 2024 election, with the Albanese Government promising another $20 million during the 2025 federal election.
“These commitments are important first steps towards long-overdue upgrades. However, with the highway continuing to rank amongst Queensland’s worst, it is clear more needs to be done,” Cr Wendt said.
“We look forward to further details from the Government about project delivery and projected timeframes.”
