Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Roads Minister Michael Daley were on hand to open the dual carriageway as part of the $262 million upgrade.

The northbound lanes beginning near Jack’s Creek are the first in a series of traffic changes along the highway before the project is completed later this year, Minister Albanese said.

“The 23km project includes seven new twin bridges, connections to existing local roads to provide safe access for the surrounding communities, eight fauna crossings and around 8.7km of fauna exclusion fencing,” he said.

“The multi-million dollar upgrade is also currently supporting around 320 direct jobs and 1,000 indirect jobs, providing a boost to both the construction industry and the local Hunter community.”

In an attempt to tackle driver fatigue Minister Daley said a rest area with 18 truck parking bays, 15 car parks, unisex disabled access toilets, seating and shelters had also been opened.

“Fatigue is one of the biggest killers on our roads, which is why this much-needed rest area at Nerong Waterholes is a welcomed addition for truck drivers and families alike,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional driver or a young family going on vacation – everyone needs to take regular breaks on long trips and this new area provides drivers with another opportunity to stop and revive.”

Motorist travelling in north and south directions along the new upgrade are now able to access rest areas.

Meanwhile a series of truck lay-by areas, equipped with emergency telephones and emergency cross-carriageway access points have been established.

Work will continue on the southbound lanes in this 13km long section for the next few weeks. Once completed, the speed limit for southbound traffic will increase to 110kmh.