• North Queensland Region
  • State Road Network Upgrade Program
Location
Cloncurry – Dajarra Road, approximately 44km south of the Barkly Highway intersection
Timing
Construction is expected to be completed in December 2026
Status
Construction

Cloncurry – Dajarra Road, Malbon River floodway, upgrade culvert and approaches

The Queensland Government is upgrading Cloncurry – Dajarra Road to improve the reliability and safety of the Malbon River floodway.

The Malbon River floodway on the Cloncurry – Dajarra Road is being replaced with a new, modern structure to improve safety, flood resilience, and travel reliability for all road users. This project is part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure that supports regional growth and enhances transport networks.

The existing floodway is a 95m-long, single-lane structure with a 'give way' control for northbound traffic. It often experiences delays and safety concerns, particularly during wet weather and flooding. To address these issues, a new floodway is being constructed downstream of the current structure, ensuring safer and more efficient travel.

Benefits

  • Improves safety
  • Increases capacity
  • Improves network efficiency
  • Improves flood immunity
  • Reduces travel time
  • Contributes to economy
  • Contributes to regional growth
  • Reduces maintenance
  • Improves ride quality

Key features

  • A new 252m-long, two-lane sealed floodway will replace the old single-lane structure
  • The new crossing will be widened to 9m for improved capacity and safety
  • Sealed road approaches will enhance access and durability
  • Wider culverts will improve water flow and reduce the risk of flooding

Funding

This project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the State Road Network Upgrades (SRNU) Investment Program, with a funding commitment of $20 million.

Investment ID: 2340394

Total investment
$20 million
Australian Government
$14.26 million
Queensland Government
$5.56 million

Current status

Construction commenced in April 2026. 

Project location map

A map of northwestern Queensland, Australia, showing major highways, rail lines, and the location of the Malbon River Crossing project. The map centers on Cloncurry, with Mt Isa to the west via the Barkly Highway and Julia Creek to the east via the Flinders Highway. The Landsborough Highway extends southeast from Cloncurry, and the Cloncurry–Dajarra Road runs south toward the Malbon River Crossing.
The Malbon River floodway is situated on Cloncurry – Dajarra Road, approximately 44km south of the Barkly Highway intersection.

Last updated: 27 May 2026