Major flood resilience improvements are on the way for Forbes, with work about to commence on nearly $13 million of upgrades on key routes to make them better able to withstand future floods.
The funding from the Albanese and Minns Governments will help Forbes Shire Council deliver road upgrades to ensure roads are better equipped to handle floodwaters, which will improve resilience of key transport routes and ensure safer and more reliable journeys during and after flood events.
The first stage of work started on Monday 26 October along Forbes Western Floodways to install four larger culverts and carry out pavement work at various locations. Crews will then move to the Forbes Southeastern Floodways, upgrading culverts and pavement works on Henry Lawson Way, Pinnacle Road and Waugan Road.
The final stage of work, expected to start in early 2027, will be flood proofing Wirrinya Road. Work will include upgrading five culverts and pavement work at various locations.
These programs of work are jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor governments through the Regional Transport Resilience Fund and reconstruction of essential public assets, under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Find more information on the Regional Transport Resilience Fund package
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:
“This is another great example of all three levels of government working together to deliver the stronger, more reliable roads the Forbes community needs.
“The Albanese Government recognises the importance of regional communities like Forbes, and we’re committed to helping them recover properly from past disasters while building greater resilience ahead of future ones.”
Senator for NSW Deborah O’Neill:
“The community of Forbes demonstrated incredible resilience during the 2022 floods and the long recovery that followed.
“This investment in transport infrastructure is essential for the people of Forbes, and all Australians who benefit from the produce that travels through this key town.
“I am proud to be a part of a Labor Government that understands that towns like Forbes are at the heart of our nation’s productivity.”
NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin:
“It is great to be out in the Central West this weekend to see recovery in action firsthand, including the start of these vital road upgrades across Forbes.
“Flood recovery is more than simply repairing damaged roads and facilities – it’s about restoring long-term confidence and ensuring that families, primary producers, and local businesses remain connected when extreme weather strikes.
“This $13-million commitment is about giving the people of Forbes true peace of mind. We are proud to work alongside our federal and local partners to build back smarter, stronger, and more resilient for the future.”
NSW Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchinson:
“The 2022 floods had a devastating impact on Forbes, cutting off roads and isolating communities when they needed support most.
“These upgrades will strengthen key transport links, improve access during floods and help keep communities connected during extreme weather events.
“This investment in these important projects will deliver a more resilient road network for Forbes, improving accessibility for residents, businesses and visitors for years to come.
“Just as importantly, these works will give local communities greater confidence that their roads will remain safer, more reliable and better able to withstand future weather events.”
Member for Orange, Phil Donato:
“Reliable roads are essential to the safety and livelihoods of regional communities, particularly when flooding threatens.
“This investment will strengthen key roads around Forbes, improve access for residents and businesses, and help our community withstand future floods.
Forbes Shire Council Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM:
“The 2022 floods demonstrated just how vulnerable some of the region’s critical road connections were.
“During the 2022 floods, roads were cut and communities were isolated, making it incredibly difficult for residents, emergency services and essential supplies to move around our shire.”
“These betterment projects are about learning from that experience and investing in infrastructure that is stronger and more resilient. Rather than simply replacing what was damaged, we have an opportunity to improve these roads and floodways so they can better withstand future events and help keep our communities connected and supported.”