Construction has started on safety upgrades to the Stanley Highway in Tasmania’s north-west, with works expected to be completed in late 2027.
The upgrades cover a 2.8km stretch of the highway between West Inlet Track and Dovecote Road, with works beginning on Monday.
They include wider lanes, sealed shoulders, improved roadside drainage and wildlife awareness signage.
The highway leads to some of Tasmania’s most iconic tourist destinations, including The Nut and the historic township of Stanley.
The works are the next phase of the government’s $10 million north-west coast and West Coast Infrastructure Program.
The same program funded upgrades to the Trethewies Lookout, which were completed in early 2025.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said the highway was one of the state’s key transport routes.
“The Stanley Highway upgrades will deliver improvements to one of Tasmania’s most important transport routes, supporting the local community, freight operators and our tourism and agricultural industries,” Vincent said.
He said the wildlife signage would help protect local animals along the route.
“The works will also include upgraded roadside drainage, improvements to key road infrastructure and the installation of wildlife awareness signage to help protect Tasmania’s iconic wildlife,” he said.
Vincent said the project had been shaped by the community.
“Community feedback has played an important role in shaping and prioritising improvements along the highway,” he said.
He thanked residents and road users for their patience while the works are delivered.
