MEDIA RELEASE

THE HON KRISTY MCBAIN MP
MINISTER FOR REGIONALDEVELOPMENT, LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND TERRITORIES

THE HON GEOFF BROCK MP
MINISTER FOR REGIONAL ROADS

As part of the Albanese and Malinauskas governments’ continued investment in improving regional roads across South Australia, flood resilience works on a vital alternative route in the Flinders Ranges are underway.

Works include sealing a 10.5-kilometre section of Tea Tree Road, constructing three major floodways, and one stormwater culvert to allow more water to run off the road.
The works are expected to improve the accessibility and productivity of the route for the community, including for mining workers and pastoralists, as well as locals and tourists travelling to the Flinders Ranges.

The works follow recent rainfall which closed Tea Tree Road to all vehicles for several days, with access still limited to four-wheel-drives and heavy vehicles after creek crossings were repaired – highlighting the need for a more resilient road.

The Albanese Government is investing $4.96 million towards the project as part of the Remote Roads Upgrade Pilot Program, which targets improvements for regional communities on roads that may have limited access, safety risks and impact the economic development of the surrounding area.

The Malinauskas Government is also investing $1.24 million towards the project, with South Australian Minister for Regional Roads, Geoff Brock, establishing the first Outback Roads Consultative Forum, bringing together regional and remote stakeholders to improve ways to upgrade the road network and prioritise resources.

Tea Tree Road will remain open – with possible speed and traffic restrictions – to all vehicles during the works, which are expected to be completed by late June 2024, weather permitting.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:
“Having toured outback South Australia last year with Minister Brock, I know there are a number of remote roads that require significant upgrades to improve their reliability and safety, which is why it’s critical that we work together to deliver this targeted funding.
“Tea Tree Road has a number of significant deficiencies that lead to its closure and the local community being cut off during flooding events, which is why the Albanese Government is investing $4.96 million towards these important upgrades.
“From accessing important services to running small businesses, road networks are a central pillar of rural communities – with these upgrades to have a lasting impact for Yunta locals and people travelling to the Flinders Ranges.”

Quotes attributable to SA Minister for Regional Roads, the Hon Geoff Brock MP:
“Being able to keep Tea Tree Road open when severe weather hits means travellers can still access another way into our iconic Flinders Ranges.
“These improvements also benefit locals and industries that rely on this route, which acts as a critical link for mining and pastoral communities.
“Increasing efficiency of stormwater runoff and constructing a more resilient road will boost safety and productivity across the region and is another measure the Government is taking towards a more reliable outback network.”

ENDS