Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced the start of construction on Pipers Creek Bridge, the first bridge work on the A$230m Kundabung to Kempsey section of the Pacific Highway upgrade.

The twin bridges at Pipers Creek are located just north of Kundabung and their pilings will take around two months to install, following which work will begin on the bridge decks.

Both the Australian and NSW Governments are working in partnership to deliver this vital upgrade.

"Both levels of government are working together to cement the Pacific Highway’s future as the main route on the east coast for freight operators and motorists."

The fast-tracking of the Pacific Highway duplication will give NSW a safer, more reliable road network.

Deputy prime minister and minister for infrastructure and regional development Warren Truss said: "The coalition has prioritised the upgrade of the Pacific Highway, which is why we have committed A$5.64bn towards completing its duplication by the end of the decade."

The project will improve road safety and reduce travel times, as well as create jobs for the local community in NSW.

Federal member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said: "The current schedule of works has created 250 direct jobs and 750 indirect jobs, which will be invaluable to the Mid North Coast economy."

NSW member for Oxley Melinda Pavey said: "Both levels of government are working together to cement the Pacific Highway’s future as the main route on the east coast for freight operators and motorists."

Both the Australian and NSW Governments are each providing A$115m for the Kundabung to Kempsey upgrade project.