Australia's Queensland Government has initiated Warrego Highway upgrade works around the Dalby region.

Upgrade works will be carried out at the eastern and western approaches to the town, which would improve the safety of motorists travelling through Dalby.

Australian Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said: “The Dalby Eastern and Western Access Upgrade projects are all about improving safety, with extra pedestrian crossings, traffic lights and improved street lighting being put in place.

“These two projects will benefit heavy vehicle operators in the agriculture, resources and tourism industries."

“These two projects are among 15 being delivered as part of the Australian Government's A$508m ($400m) commitment to upgrade the Warrego Highway between Toowoomba to Miles.”

The Australian Government has offered A$47.2m ($37.3m) for the Dalby Western access upgrade, while the Queensland Government has provided A$11.8m ($9.3m).

For Dalby’s Eastern access upgrade, the Australian and Queensland Governments have agreed to respectively offer A$44.8m ($35.4m) A$11.2m ($8.8m).

Construction on the two approaches is expected to be completed by the end of next year.

Queensland minister for main roads, road safety and ports Steven Miles said: “These two projects will benefit heavy vehicle operators in the agriculture, resources and tourism industries, by reducing delivery times and operational costs.

“Improvements, such as dedicated right-turn lanes at all major intersections of the Warrego Highway through Dalby, will make travelling along this section of the highway safer and more efficient.”

The Warrego Highway Upgrade Programme includes a package of 15 works, which will be carried out with an A$635m ($502m) investment, funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on an 80:20 funding split arrangement.