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Reconstructing Queensland

Overview:

The huge task of reconstructing Queensland’s road network is making great progress. The Department of Transport and Main Roads and the construction industry are working hard to fix damaged roads and transport infrastructure. We’ve already completed a significant amount of emergency and reconstruction works across the state and we have expedited delivery of the remaining program of works.

Location:

Queensland

Regions:
Central West Region, Darling Downs Region, Far North Region, Fitzroy Region, Mackay Whitsunday Region, Metropolitan Region, North Coast Region, North West Region, Northern Region, South Coast Region, South West Region, Wide Bay Burnett Region

Project info

Working to reconnect Queensland, its people, communities and industries following consecutive summers of disaster

The flooding and cyclone events which impacted Queensland in the summers of 2010/2011, and 2011/2012 were so extensive an extraordinary response was required. This response was Operation Queenslander, the largest reconstruction effort in the state’s history, rebuilding communities, fixing infrastructure and restoring regional economies.

In early 2011, 100% of the state was disaster declared with approximately 20,610km of roads closed. Following a review of damage to the state-controlled road network, $4.2 billion was allocated to complete reconstruction works from natural disasters in 2010 and 2011.

Then again in 2012 the state was impacted by natural disasters, with more than 10,890km of state-controlled roads closed. A submission was prepared for consideration by Queensland Treasury as part of the budget process, and the 2012 State Budget included an allocation for reconstruction works of $1.127 billion.

Transport and Main Roads is delivering the largest program of works in the department’s history, with more than $6.023 billion budgeted to reconstruct 8545km of Queensland’s state-controlled roads impacted by floods and cyclones in the summers of 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Road by road, across regional Queensland, we’re repairing our transport network.

The program of work will be delivered across the state until mid 2014 under Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA), a joint federal and state initiative. Under these arrangements, the Australian Government provides 75% of the funding, with 25% from the Queensland Government.

Natural disasters struck Queensland again in early 2013, with the state affected by floods and a cyclone. Recovery of the state-controlled road network impacted by these events has been completed and we have started delivery of longer term repair works.

By working smarter and packaging works, we are ensuring the impacts of roadworks on our major industries of tourism, agriculture and resources are minimised. To reduce delays for motorists and efficiently deliver infrastructure projects, the department is fast tracking several federal and state government projects to deliver complementary works in conjunction with reconstruction works. 

Reconstruction progress


Traffic info

Safety and changed traffic conditions

Our state is a hive of activity as we get on with reconstruction. Road users should drive to the changed conditions and obey all signage for their own safety and the safety of road workers.

Plan your trip and stay updated on changes to the road network. Check the 131940 Traffic and Travel Information website, the department’s Facebook page, listen for community service announcements and look out for electronic variable message signs. 

While we aim to minimise impacts on road users, be aware you may experience some delays. Plan your travel and allow enough time to safely reach your destination.

The safety of road users and road workers is the number one priority during reconstruction work.

Your patience and cooperation is appreciated while these important works are underway.

Please slow down - roadwork safety is your responsibility too.

Freight and heavy vehicle

To improve and maintain the connectivity of the Queensland road network, a number of heavy vehicle and freight restrictions are in place. Check 131940 Traffic and Travel Information phone line or website to plan your route prior to travel.

For information on excess mass, excess dimension guidelines and conditions, visit the heavy vehicles page on the Transport and Main Roads website.

Restrictions are put in place for your safety as well as all other road users and roadwork crews. Heavy vehicle operators should also note any travel restrictions for excess dimensional loads. For further details, please contact your local permit issuing centre.

It’s essential you plan your route and let us know when you are planning on travelling.

The department is working with industry to minimise the impact of heavy vehicle on work sites. With enough notice, works may be scheduled to allow excess dimensional loads to get through. Please note that your permit may be checked, and failure to comply with road condition restrictions may result in a penalty and generate a liability for damage to roadworks.

For information on excess mass, excess dimension guidelines and conditions, visit the heavy vehicles page on the Transport and Main Roads website, or call the freight hotline on 1300 105 647 between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Community info

Industry involvement

Transport and Main Roads and the construction industry are working hard to efficiently deliver infrastructure repairs and reconnect Queensland. The reconstruction program of works will create more than 17,000 jobs across the state.

Contractors have an obligation to think locally and where appropriate use local suppliers, contractors and services. Contractors are preparing, implementing and complying with local industry participation plans. This will help promote and develop local industries by increasing participation and up-skilling the workforce.

Material such as aggregate, cement and bitumen are needed as well as other supplies. The department is working with industry associations including the Cement, Concrete and Aggregates Australia, and Australia Asphalt Pavement Association to identify supply opportunities.

It is vital that companies make sure they are prequalified with Transport and Main Roads to take part in the reconstruction effort. Local companies can also get involved through sub contracting or supplying companies that are prequalified.

Industry are being kept informed of the progress within the program. Briefings are taking place with industry and industry groups such as the Queensland Major Contractors Association, and the Civil Contractors Federation. Materials requirements are available through the supply critical materials for Queensland's reconstruction page.

Tender offers and listings are found on the Queensland Government Chief Procurement Office website. Further information on prequalification, tenders and a list of prequalified contractors is available on our Business and Industry page.

Last updated
02 May 2013