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Tasmania celebrates historic opening of new Bridgewater Crossing

Touted as the largest transport infrastructure project in Tasmania’s history, the $786 million bridge has been delivered on time and on budget, symbolising the strength of intergovernmental cooperation and local ingenuity.

In a landmark moment for Tasmania, the much-anticipated Bridgewater Bridge has officially opened, ushering in a new era of connectivity, safety, and economic opportunity for the island state.

Touted as the largest transport infrastructure project in Tasmania’s history, the $786 million bridge has been delivered on time and on budget, symbolising the strength of intergovernmental cooperation and local ingenuity.

Standing 1.2 kilometres long with four traffic lanes and a 3-metre-wide shared path for pedestrians and cyclists, the new bridge replaces ageing infrastructure with a sleek, modern design aimed at meeting the state’s transport needs for decades to come. It improves traffic flow, reduces bottlenecks, supports freight movement, and enhances safety across multiple modes of transport.

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“This magnificent piece of infrastructure connects people and communities, and it’s created over 1000 jobs, with 85 per cent going to Tasmanians,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the official opening.

“Today we opened the new Bridgewater Bridge, but this is about more than a structure – it’s about building a better future for Tasmania.”

The project was funded through a partnership between the Australian and Tasmanian governments, with the Commonwealth contributing $628.8 million and the remaining $157.2 million provided by the state.

Describing the day as “historic,” Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff paid tribute to the local workforce:

“This is a bridge built by Tasmanians, for Tasmanians. It’s been talked about for decades, but together we’ve delivered it. Each of the 1000 workers who helped build it can take enormous pride in knowing they’ve shaped Tasmania’s future.”

The new bridge—marking the fifth crossing of the River Derwent at Bridgewater—will open to traffic on Monday, 2 June, with all four lanes operating at 80 km/h. It is designed to support both current demand and future growth, with improved access for marine traffic thanks to a higher clearance and removal of the old lift span, eliminating previous river traffic delays.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King noted the project’s long-term impact.

“The first Bridgewater Bridge opened in 1848. Today we open the fifth, a lasting legacy that will benefit generations of Tasmanians. This is what transformative infrastructure looks like—supporting communities, boosting economies, and making travel safer and faster.”

Importantly, the project also served as a training ground for Tasmania’s next generation of skilled workers. Targeted employment and training programs created pathways for apprentices, trainees, and people new to the civil construction industry, ensuring the benefits extend well beyond the bridge itself.

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Minister for Infrastructure Kerry Vincent added,

“This is more than just concrete and steel—it’s a symbol of what the future holds for Tasmania. I thank the local community for their resilience and patience throughout construction.”

While the bridge opens to traffic this week, finishing touches will continue across the site, including landscaping, removal of temporary barges, and completion of a new roundabout connecting Old Main Road and Gunn Street.

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