Joint media release: Construction commences on Mundarlo Bridge replacement

$30.7 million infrastructure project to replace Mundarlo Bridge is underway, significantly improving access and safety for the Riverina community during high river flow events in the Murrumbidgee River. Funded by the Albanese Government and led by the Minns Government, the project will deliver a new 110-metre-long bridge, 3.7 metres higher than the existing one, with widened dual lanes to accommodate heavy vehicles, such as farm machinery and trucks.

Located approximately 40 kilometres from Gundagai and 60 kilometres from Wagga Wagga, Mundarlo Bridge is the only public crossing of the Murrumbidgee River between the two centres. The current bridge is highly susceptible to flooding and is overtopped when flows exceed 32,000 ML per day at Gundagai. This causes significant disruptions to the community including detours of up to 120 kilometres for motorists.

The new bridge is designed to remain open during flows up to 100,000 ML of water per day, preventing the community from being cut-off and reducing the frequency of clean-ups and major repair works. To keep traffic flowing, the new bridge will be built upstream of the old one, allowing the single-lane bridge to continue to be used during construction. Once complete, the old bridge will be demolished and approaching roads on either side of the river will be realigned.

The project is part of the $274 million Reconnecting River Country Program, which contributes to the Murray−Darling Basin Plan’s environmental outcomes by enabling rivers to connect to their wetlands and floodplains. NSW construction company, Saunders Civilbuild will commence early works shortly, with completion expected by late December 2026. Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt: “The Mundarlo Bridge replacement will deliver much needed reliability for locals, farmers and freight operators who depend on this crossing every day, while continuing to encourage healthy environmental flow.

“The Albanese Government is pleased to work with the Minns Government to deliver this important project for the region.” Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Water, the Hon Rose Jackson: “The community in and around Wagga Wagga deserves infrastructure they can rely on, not a bridge that disappears the moment the Murrumbidgee River rises. “When the river rises, people shouldn’t be cut off from work, school or other essential services.

This new bridge will ensure safer, more reliable access year-round, while still supporting the region’s farming and river systems. “We know just how critical this crossing is for locals. That’s why we’ll continue to keep the community informed every step of the way as this project moves forward.” We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.

We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.