A major $4 million upgrade to South West Rocks Road between Jerseyville and Kinchela is progressing, with preparatory works to stabilise the Macleay Riverbank almost complete.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack visited the section of road today to see how the project was progressing with Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan and Kempsey Shire Mayor Liz Campbell.

Mr Conaghan said it was great to get out on the ground and see the benefits of the Federal and State Government's record investment in fixing local roads starting to flow.

"It's been some time since South West Rocks Road received a major upgrade and it's being delivered now due to our Government's record investment in infrastructure," he said.

"Locals use this road every day to travel between South West Rocks and Kempsey. It's a key local road for the Macleay community."

Mr Conaghan has been a strong advocate for upgrading regional roads in the Kempsey Shire and said the works will provide a safer route for motorists.

"It's great to see the work being done. The goal is for this road to be safer for motorists," he said.

"The rehabilitation and resurfacing, which will start soon, will make it much safer and smoother."

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said this project was an excellent example of local road upgrades occurring right across Australia.

"Right here in Kempsey Shire, we are providing significant support to the region for infrastructure and road works to support local contractors, local suppliers and local businesses as we recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, bushfires and the drought," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

"Pat Conaghan has continued to advocate for regional road upgrades in this area and it's what the community needs."

The upgrade of South West Rocks Road was identified as a priority in council's 2020-2021 Operating Plan and will be carried out over the next two financial years due to the scale of the project.

"We are aware of the South West Rocks community's concerns over the driving conditions on this stretch of road and it is a great result to be able to announce this much-needed upgrade," Mayor Liz Campbell said.

"After securing this crucial funding we are ecstatic to have broken ground on a project that will significantly improve the drive for the community and tourists alike."

"We thank the community for the patience regarding any minor delays experienced as a result of the roadworks, and we look forward to many more wonderful journeys on this vital road."

Kempsey Shire Council has also been given $2.7 million through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.