The Government of Victoria in Australia has announced that the road widening and upgrade works have begun on the Western Highway between Buangor and Ararat to provide safer and quicker journeys.

Construction works will see duplication of the 12.5km stretch of the highway, leading to a four-lane divided route.

Victoria Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan said: “The Western Highway is one of Victoria’s busiest rural highways. That’s why we’re not wasting a minute in making it safer and more reliable.”

“These upgrades will better connect Western Victorian producers to key markets within Australia and around the world, and that’s good news for local jobs and business.”

“Western Highway between Ballarat and Stawell will be duplicated and upgraded with an investment of A$672m ($507m) from Australian and Victorian governments.”

Work to be carried out includes two new lanes in each direction with additional turning lanes, as well as a new bridge over the railway line and two new bridges over Hopkins River.

Additionally, an interchange will be built at Hillside Road with entry and exit ramps.

Western Victoria Member Jaala Pulford said: “The community is right behind this project, and with good reason. It will reduce travel times and make it easier for locals to do business.”

“We’re doing our best to ensure drivers can still get where they need to go while we get on and deliver this vital upgrade.”

The Western Highway serves as a key trade route for Victoria, linking the region’s primary producers with Melbourne’s domestic and export markets.

Work will also consist of 6km new dual carriageway in farmland to the south of the present Western Highway.

The highway serves as the major connection between Melbourne and Adelaide.

Western Highway between Ballarat and Stawell will be duplicated and upgraded with an investment of A$672m ($507m) from Australian and Victorian governments.

Work on the highway is expected to be completed in 2020.