Work on a $14.4 million project to upgrade sections of Aramac-Torrens Creek Road in Queensland's north-west is making good progress, with more than 30 kilometres of road sealing already completed.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese said the Australian Government's contribution of $7 million was vital to help maintain the state's regional roads.

"This road is a key tourist and heavy vehicle route for north-west Queensland and these road-sealing works will significantly improve travelling conditions and safety," Mr Albanese said.

"This is another example of Federal, state and local governments working together to keep Queensland and its communities connected," he said.

Queensland Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said Main Roads funding of $5 million, the Barcaldine Regional Council’s $1.8 million and the Outback Regional Road Group’s contribution of $600,000 would continue the progressive sealing of the road, which would be upgraded in several stages.

"Stage one of the project was completed in August this year, and involved sealing a 21-kilometre section of Aramac-Torrens Creek Road west of Charters Towers,” he said.

"The second stage involves the sealing of a 20.8-kilometre section of the road, about 21 kilometres north of the boundary between the Barcaldine and Flinders councils, and is due for completion by the end of 2008, weather permitting,” Mr Pitt said.

Mr Pitt said a 20.2-kilometre section of Aramac-Torrens Creek Road would be sealed, about 48 kilometres north of the Flinders Shire Council boundary, during stage three of the project.

"This third stage is due to commence in January next year and is expected to be completed by the end of 2009, weather permitting," he said.

"Stage four has already commenced, with work on sealing 17.7 kilometres of road, 70 kilometres north of the boundary between the two councils. This work began in August this year and should be completed in mid-2009, weather permitting.”