The Government of Victoria in Australia has awarded a contract to a joint venture (JV) between CPB Contractors and Seymour Whyte Constructions for the next stage of Western Highway duplication works.

The scope of the contract involves the construction of a 12.5km duplication of the Western Highway between Buangor and Ararat.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Barnaby Joyce stated that the project works form a part of the Australian Government’s around A$500m ($396m) investment to duplicate the Western Highway between Ballarat and Stawell.

Joyce said: “In partnership with the Victorian government, the overarching project will see $659.7m ($522.5m) invested in building a dual-lane highway between Melbourne and Adelaide.

“The improved highway will make travel safer for all drivers, and make the trip more efficient for heavy-freight vehicles.”

“The improved highway will make travel safer for all drivers, and make the trip more efficient for heavy-freight vehicles.”

Construction works are expected to start next month and will be completed in two years.

Victoria Legislative Council member Jaala Pulford stated that the project is expected to create an efficient four-lane divided route, as well as increase road safety.

Pulford said: “Construction will include a new bridge over the railway line, two new bridges over the Hopkins River, additional turning lanes and an interchange with entry and exit ramps at Hillside Road.”

Initial pre-construction works such as fence-building are scheduled to be completed over the next few weeks.

The federal government has committed A$499.3m ($395.5m) for the overall Western Highway duplication between Ballarat and Stawell, while the state government will provide A$160.3m ($125.84m).