en.Wedoany.com Reported - On July 21, 2026, the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads has launched the tender for the main construction works of the Tiaro Bypass as part of the Bruce Highway Upgrade Project, aimed at improving road safety, flood resilience, and traffic efficiency in the Fraser Coast region.

The Tiaro Bypass will construct a new 8.5-kilometer four-lane highway east of the town, with interchanges at both the northern and southern ends to separate local and through traffic, alleviating congestion on this busy section of the Bruce Highway. The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government on an 80:20 basis, and has entered the construction tender phase following additional funding in the 2026-27 federal budget.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King stated that the Australian Government is committed to providing safer and more reliable highways for regional areas. She noted that the Tiaro Bypass is crucial to improving the overall efficiency of the Bruce Highway, and the additional federal funding will support the project's progression into the construction phase, enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and supporting economic growth in regional Queensland through key infrastructure investments.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the tender launch marks a significant step forward for the project, which will support a growing population, improve driver safety, and enhance the quality of life for local communities. Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Queensland Senator Anthony Chisholm stated that the Bruce Highway remains a top priority for the Australian Government, noting that the Gympie Bypass has already delivered significant safety benefits for the region, and the Tiaro Bypass is another part of ongoing improvements to the highway's safety. Maryborough electorate MP John Barounis pointed out that the bypass will address long-standing congestion issues in the Tiaro area, and the project is advancing toward construction following additional funding. The construction timeline will be announced after the contractor is selected.