Cape Jervis and O’Sullivan Beach will be among jetties and beach ramps to benefit from the state budget.

South Australian jetties, bridges, boat ramps and boating facilities will get a $40 million injection in the upcoming budget – boosting coastal and regional communities and creating jobs.

The initiative will see $20 million over three years to upgrade priority bridges across South Australia and $20 million over three years to upgrade jetties and boat ramps, creating 80 jobs.

The first round of boat ramps and jetties which will be upgraded or improved under this program within the next two years include Anxious Bay Boat Ramp, Cape Jervis Jetty, Streaky Bay Shelter, Coffin Bay Jetty and O’Sullivan Beach Boat Ramp. West Beach Boat Ramp is also part of the program.

Bridges to be upgraded in the next 18 months include the Barrier Highway at Burra, Mawson Road at Meadows and Hindmarsh Tiers Road over Hindmarsh River.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Corey Wingard says upgraded bridge, jetty and boating infrastructure across the state would improve safety and boost regional economies.

“We know jetties and boat ramps are often at the heart of coastal communities and they play an important role in South Australians’ way of life,” Minister Wingard says.

“We know many South Australians love nothing more than getting out in the boat and dropping a line to try and catch a fish.

“Recreational fishing is critical part of our state’s economy and these upgrades will hopefully encourage more people to get out on the water which has a significant flow on effect to local businesses.

“Importantly new and improved jetties and boat ramps will increase safety for those enjoying the wonderful coastline South Australia has to offer.

“We are also committing a further $20 million to upgrade priority bridges across South Australia to look after those travelling on our roads.

“This is all part of our record investment in infrastructure across South Australia.