The federal government of Australia and the state government of Victoria will together provide A$25m ($24.8m) to deploy smart technology on the West Gate Freeway in Victoria, Australia.

The smart technology will be installed between the Western Ring Road and Williamstown Road, a section of the M1 freeway, to ease congestion, aid traffic flow and improve safety.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese said the technology will make the West Gate Freeway safer and less congested for the 160,000 vehicles that use it every day.

"Managing the freeway better with new technology will make a real difference to motorists," Albanese said.

The new freeway management technology will include closed circuit TV, mounted variable speed limit signs and ramp signalling at entry ramps.

The smart technology will also have digital variable message signs to provide drivers with live updates about traffic conditions, delays, speed restrictions during accidents and which lanes to use.

The new technology will also upgrade the supporting communications networks and central control systems.

Victoria’s Minister for Public Transport and Roads Terry Mulder said the technology on this section of the M1 is currently restricted to variable speed limits and traffic lights on entry ramps to control access to the freeway.

"Once completed, the project will provide a seamless technology link between the M1 east of Williamstown Road and the current M80 Upgrade," Mulder said.

"The full integration of these systems will make travel along two of Victoria’s busiest freeways safer and more free flowing."

The state and the federal governments will each contribute $12.5m ($12.4m) towards the installation of the new technology.

The Australian government is funding the technology through its $60m ($59.6m) National Smart Managed Motorways, which is part of the Nation Building Program.