The Australian Government has today announced funding for an important infrastructure project to boost the nation’s capital – the upgrade of Commonwealth Avenue Bridge.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s commitment of $137 million for the bridge upgrade was a big win for Canberra.

“This investment ensures this important piece of infrastructure can continue to function safely for the next 50 years and beyond,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This investment will also back Canberra’s construction workforce and economy at a critical time, with the bridge upgrade expected to create more than 700 jobs.

“We are particularly pleased the majority of construction materials to be used for the project, such as the steel and concrete, are manufactured in Australia.”

Senator for the ACT Zed Seselja said the funding for the bridge upgrade would significantly improve safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.

“The Commonwealth Avenue Bridge upgrade, which will be delivered by the National Capital Authority, will strengthen the bridge to prevent structural damage, widen the pedestrian pathways and replace the vehicle safety barriers to improve road safety,” Senator Seselja said.

“It is infrastructure projects such as these that make a real difference for the day to day lives of Canberrans and of course for local jobs and the economy at this vital time, which is why we are pleased to confirm federal funding will flow.”

“This $137 million investment in Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is part of over $1.3 billion in new investments announced in the ACT by the Federal Government in recent years, boosting the Canberra economy.”

“This is what the Australian Government’s $110 billion nationwide infrastructure investment program is all about: getting Australians home sooner and safer while creating jobs and economic stimulus to lay the economic foundations for recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic,” Senator Seselja concluded.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr welcomed the Australian Government’s commitment to upgrade Commonwealth Avenue Bridge.

“This significant commitment to upgrade Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is warmly welcomed by the ACT Government,” Chief Minister Barr said.

“The upgrade will ensure that the Bridge will continue to operate as a critical piece of our city’s transport infrastructure for decades to come.”

“This project will stimulate our local economy and support the jobs and livelihoods of Canberrans.”

The $137 million Commonwealth Avenue Bridge upgrade is being fully funded by the Australian Government.