Further upgrades to Newell Highway in North West

A $181m upgrade of the Newell Highway north of Moree has been announced, with the federal and New South Wales governments funding a major pavement renewal and safety improvements along one of the nation’s key freight routes.

The 14.9km project will receive $144.8m from the federal government and $36.2m from the NSW government.

It will include a new heavy-duty pavement, wider lanes and shoulders, upgraded intersections, improved drainage, safer property access and upgraded bus stops.

The works are designed to improve safety on a section of highway with a history of crashes while strengthening the reliability and resilience of the freight corridor.

Early work is expected to begin by mid-2027, with a construction contract expected to be awarded in 2028.

The project is the latest in a series of upgrades along the Newell Highway.

It follows the completion of the heavy-duty pavement upgrade between Narrabri and Moree in 2025, the North Croppa safety upgrade in 2024, and ongoing work at Tackinbri and South Croppa.

Work is also continuing on upgrades to the twin Tycannah rest areas south of Moree.

Together, the projects will provide continuous upgraded pavement and improved heavy vehicle rest facilities along the Newell Highway from Narrabri to Boggabilla.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the project would improve safety for motorists and freight operators.

“The Newell Highway is a major inland regional route that is used by thousands of locals, tourists and key freight operators every day,” Ms King said.

“With a history of crashes along the highway, this project will deliver wider lanes and upgraded intersections to improve safety and ensure all Australians can return home safely.

“The Albanese government is proud to be working with the NSW government to deliver this much-needed upgrade on the Newell Highway.”

NSW roads minister Jenny Aitchison said the project would deliver practical improvements for communities that rely on the route.

“The Minns Labor government is focused on delivering practical upgrades that make a real difference for communities, and this project is exactly that,” Ms Aitchison said.

“The Newell Highway is one of the state’s most important regional corridors, supporting freight, tourism and local travel between Victoria and Queensland.

“These upgrades target some of the most important sections of the Newell Highway to deliver real safety improvements for the people who rely on it every day.

“Once complete, these works will deliver safer, more reliable journeys and help people get home sooner and more safely to family and friends.”