The Barron River Bridge is something I have been advocating for since I first started campaigning. It’s something I have spoken to the Minister for Transport about on a daily basis and I am so pleased to announce that our new bridge is underway.
FUNDING SECURED
$245 million will be allocated to build a safer, stronger, and more reliable bridge for the Far North.
This investment matches the Australian Government’s commitment announced in April, ensuring full funding is now locked in. After years of delays, excuses, and inaction under the previous Labor Government, we’re finally moving forward with the infrastructure our region has been crying out for.
A New Era for the Barron River Bridge
Minister for Transport Brent Mickelberg has delivered a significant update on a critical piece of local infrastructure—the Barron River Bridge.
Today, the Department of Transport and Main Roads released the summary business case for a brand-new Barron River Bridge. This marks a major milestone in our commitment to deliver long-overdue infrastructure upgrades in the north, and it’s proof that the Crisafulli Government is doing exactly what we said we would do: get on with the job.
The new bridge will be built downstream from the existing bridge, allowing the current crossing to remain fully operational throughout the construction phase. This is a common-sense approach that minimises disruption for locals, tourists, and freight operators who rely on this critical link between Cairns and the Tablelands every single day.
This announcement is not just about a bridge—it’s about restoring trust in government and investing in the future of our region. The current Barron River Bridge has served us for generations, but it’s aging, and it’s time to plan for the future. A stronger, safer, and more resilient bridge will ensure FNQ stays connected in the decades to come.
And when the first sod is turned, I’ll be right there on site—shovel in hand—celebrating the beginning of a project our community has waited far too long for.
This is what delivering for FNQ looks like.
Media Statement:
Crisafulli Government to deliver for Barron River
- Crisafulli Government releases summary business case for Barron River Bridge at Kuranda.
- A new bridge downstream from the existing bridge has been identified as the preferred long-term solution.
- Crisafulli Government is committed to fixing the Barron River Bridge after Labor left it to ruin.
The Crisafulli Government has released the summary business case identifying the best long-term solution for the ageing bridge over Barron River in Kuranda. The ageing bridge should have been addressed a decade ago, but Labor left it to rot and ruin, despite the desperate calls from the Far North community. The recommendation from the planning study is to build a new bridge on a new alignment, downstream from the existing bridge. A new pathway for pedestrians and bike riders, separated from traffic with a barrier, is recommended to greatly improve safety for vulnerable road users. See the full media statement For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/barronriverbridge
Business Case
The Barron River bridge at Kuranda is nearing the end of its life. A comprehensive planning project has identified a new bridge, downstream from the existing bridge as the preferred long-term solution. The proposed new bridge will improve network reliability and safety for all road users, while minimising potential environmental and cultural heritage impacts.
Funding
This project is fully funded by the Queensland Government.
- Total investment
- $8.98 million
- Queensland Government
- $8.98 million
Kennedy Highway (Cairns – Mareeba), Barron River bridge upgrade, planning location map
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