The two new schemes will help launch projects to make the transport industry safer for all operators
The federal government has announced that it will kickstart 27 new projects focused around renewing bridges and improving the overall safety of the heavy vehicle industry.
Twenty-seven new projects will be funded under the Bridges Renewal and Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity programs.
The federal government says it is investing more than $39 million for 18 new projects under the Bridges Renewal Program.
This is in addition to an investment of more than $18 million for nine new projects under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP).
The Bridges Renewal Program supports the upgrade of old and worn timber bridges to safer and more durable double-lane, modern concrete structures.
The HVSPP aims to increase the productivity and safety of heavy vehicle operations, with projects funded under the program including widening and improving roads used in freight routes as well as upgrading existing and building new truck stop rest areas.
The federal government says it has committed at least $85 million per year going forward for the Bridges Renewal Program, and at least $65 million per year to the HVSPP.