Mr Baldwin made the announcement on Monday while touring local roads with Shadow Minister for Trade, Transport and Local Government Warren Truss.

The $71 million package includes $20m to upgrade Main Road 301 between Raymond Terrace and Dungog with $10m in the first term and $10m in the second term, and $5m to fix Gresford Road between Paterson and Gresford.

$20 million has also been promised to build passing lanes on the Bucketts Way.

Mr Truss said these upgrades would deliver real benefits for the people of Paterson and make local roads safer.

Mr Baldwin noted the importance of roads in regional areas such as Paterson.

“Safe and quality roads are critical to our viability,” he said.

“Local people rely on roads to access entertainment, education, health and other services and that is why they are always a priority of mine.

“When you fix a road, you create a highway to opportunity.

“I have been listening to and working with the local community and mayors, identifying areas of concern that require funding.

“Today’s package announcement directly addresses those concerns raised by the community.

“Importantly, by providing guaranteed funding over a number of years, local councils are better able to plan upgrades and seek State Government co-operative funding.”

Other roads to benefit from the proposed funding include a $20 million upgrade to the Lakes Way and $6 millon to start the construction of the Nelson Bay to Fingal Bay bypass.