Funding safer journeys in the South-east

Wednesday, 18 June 2025

A key route in the state’s south-east will be upgraded with funding from the Australian and South Australian Governments.

A 15 km section of the Southern Ports Highway, between the Southend Access Rd turn-off and Beachport outlet, will be reconstructed by Wattle Range Council on behalf of the Department for Infrastructure and Transport.

The funding for the project comes from the $168 million Road Safety Program, funded 50:50 by the state and federal governments.

The $11.3 million road upgrade will commence in July 2025, creating 10 full-time jobs directly, while supporting additional sub-contractor positions.

The project includes reconstruction of the road surface, shoulder sealing, and the installation of safety barriers and audio tactile line marking. Reconstruction of the road surface will be completed in stages, with the project due to be complete in March 2026.

On average, around 1300 road users travel on the highway each day, with around 16 per cent of them commercial vehicles.

Public meetings will be held in Southend and Beachport in early July to give locals and business owners an opportunity to learn more about the works, while efforts are also underway to coordinate with local schools to adjust bus routes and ensure minimal disruption to students and families.

There will be times when full road closures are required, with the community to be notified in advance, and permits to be made available for residents to ensure access to their properties. Roadworks will also pause during the peak summer holiday period.