Princes Highway

The Hon. MARIE FICARRA: My question is directed to the Minister for Roads. Is the Minister aware that there have been 19 deaths on the Princes Highway in four years to 2007? Is the Minister also aware that the Coroner's report states that sections of the highway are unacceptable and in many areas the traffic lanes are too narrow by modern standards, with little or no paved shoulder? The report also states that "the consequences of simple driver error in such an environment may be catastrophic". Given the number of people who have already died on that highway, when will the Government act and provide much-needed funding to upgrade the highway?

The Hon. ERIC ROOZENDAAL: I have received the recommendations of the Deputy State Coroner and I have asked the Roads and Traffic Authority [RTA] to review the report. Improving the Princes Highway is the Government's highest road priority for the Illawarra and South Coast regions. The Iemma Government is investing $144 million on continuing the upgrade of the Princes Highway. The 2008-09 budget includes $500,000 towards the realignment of the Princes Highway at Victoria Creek. I am advised that the RTA is currently conducting environmental and geotechnical studies to determine the preferred route. The RTA is also developing a proposal for the realignment of the Princes Highway at Dignams Creek and $200,000 has been allocated in the 2008-09 budget for planning the project. I understand that the RTA upgraded the "curve warning" sign along the Princes Highway at Dignams Creek in February. In addition, the Iemma Government has allocated a record $141 million in the 2008-09 State budget for road safety campaigns and education.

The Hon. MICHAEL COSTA: I suggest that if members have further questions, they place them on notice.