Rick Wilson (O'Connor, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

The Morrison government understands the importance of road networks and we demonstrated our commitment to boosting roads safety and regional jobs in the Goldfields region of O'Connor. The recently announced $30 million upgrade of the Coolgardie–Esperance Highway will be delivered on the 25-kilometre section between the Goldfields high intersection and Emu Rocks South, supporting approximately 90 jobs. The project will include constructing northbound and southbound passing lanes north of Emu Rocks, upgrading sections at Goldfields Highway and Kingswood Street, and widening and sealing road shoulders.

The Coolgardie–Esperance high forms part of the Perth-Adelaide route on the National Land Transport Network, making it a vital road network for the movement of people and goods. By investing in this stretch of the highway, we are building a safer road network for the families and communities that live and work here. We're also supporting the productivity of regional industries on what is a major freight route through the Goldfields-Esperance region, with about two million tonnes transported each year. Construction is due to start in December 2020, and completion is expected by April 2022.

While highways are vital to the operation of our nation, main streets in regional towns are every bit as important. Main streets give small business a place to thrive. They offer a sense of place, an insight into a region's history and create spaces for the community to gather. To this end, I'm pleased to have secured over $900,000 for the upgrade of Bayley Street, the main street of the historic town of Coolgardie. This funding will be used to improve the safety and aesthetics of the street for both drivers and pedestrians.

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