Media Statement: Hyden–Norseman Road – Flood Damage Update and Safety Advisory

Published on Friday, 9 January 2026 at 2:03:38 PM

MEDIA STATEMENT
Hyden–Norseman Road – Flood Damage Update and Safety Advisory

The Shire of Dundas advises that the Hyden–Norseman Road has been significantly impacted by the recent record-breaking rainfall event across the Goldfields region.

Following the rainfall associated with the October 5–6 weather system, Shire officers have undertaken inspections of the road network. More than 80 kilometres of the Hyden–Norseman Road have sustained damage, including severe corrugation, washouts, and surface failures, creating hazardous driving conditions.

This event formed part of a broader system that delivered approximately 60mm of rainfall within 24 hours, the highest October rainfall recorded in over 40 years, as confirmed by the Bureau of Meteorology. The prolonged rain band caused flooding and widespread damage to roads and drainage infrastructure across multiple local government areas.

The Shire has completed its initial damage assessments and has lodged a formal submission under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, Western Australia (DRFA WA). The Shire is now awaiting formal approval to enable recovery and restoration works to proceed.

In the meantime, all road users are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution when travelling on the Hyden–Norseman Road. Conditions may deteriorate rapidly, and some sections may be unsafe for travel, particularly for light vehicles and road trains.

The Shire will continue to monitor conditions and will provide further updates as information becomes available.