Completion of the new northbound Centenary Bridge across the Brisbane River marks a significant milestone, as citybound traffic was officially moved onto the bridge today. This development follows years of disruptions and challenges, primarily attributed to actions by the CFMEU (Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union). The project faced numerous delays that resulted in substantial additional costs and workflow interruptions.
Brent Mickelberg, the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, highlighted that the Crisafulli Government allocated $55 million in its first budget to support the Centenary Bridge Upgrade. The funding aims to enhance infrastructure following a series of setbacks under the previous Miles-Palaszczuk Labor Government, which faced criticism for its handling of the project.
According to reports, approximately 70 days of work since February 2024 were either delayed or disrupted due to CFMEU-led actions, including reports of physical threats to workers. These disruptions not only affected the construction timeline but also resulted in significant financial implications for taxpayers.
The upgrade, a collaborative effort between the Federal and Queensland Governments, is essential for managing the demands of a growing population. With over 85,000 vehicles relying on the bridge daily, the enhancements are crucial for improving traffic flow and connectivity in the region.
Minister Mickelberg stated, “The Centenary Bridge is the primary river crossing for thousands of residents and businesses in Brisbane’s western suburbs, connecting communities from Moggill, Bellbowrie, and Kenmore through to the city.” He further expressed confidence that the government has successfully navigated past the union’s tactics that previously impeded progress.
He added, “Months of work were delayed or disrupted in 2024 on this project due to the CFMEU, costing taxpayers millions of dollars. We have rid this project of the union’s militant tactics, which resulted in workers intimidated and Brisbane commuters enduring daily gridlock, and are getting on with the job of getting this infrastructure project delivered.”
In welcoming the bridge’s opening, Dr. Christian Rowan, Member for Moggill, emphasized the project’s significance for local communities. “This is a significant step forward for the Centenary Bridge Upgrade, which will greatly improve safety and reduce congestion for the thousands of motorists who rely on this critical connection every day,” he remarked.
The government is now focused on planning for a staged approach to widen the corridor beyond the bridge, ensuring continued traffic flow and increased capacity on the network. The completion of the Centenary Bridge signals a new chapter for Brisbane commuters, promising improved infrastructure and better transport links across the city’s western suburbs.
