The legendary Mount Panorama circuit in Bathurst stands poised for significant enhancements, thanks to a $70 million funding request submitted to the federal government by Bathurst Regional Council (BRC).

V8 Sleuth reports that the ambitious plan encompasses safety enhancements alongside a complete resurfacing of the 6.213km track, which doubles as a public road outside of racing periods.

This development follows a pre-election commitment in 2025 that labeled upgrades for the globally renowned venue - home to the Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race and the iconic Bathurst 1000 Supercars event - as long overdue.

The circuit's full resurfacing last occurred in 2014.

The comprehensive proposal also includes permanent grandstands, updated tyre barriers to replace aging ones, and a modernized pit area featuring new fibre-optic systems for race control and media operations.

"To be upfront, this wishlist has no upper limit, so we've included every upgrade we could dream of in one comprehensive package," BRC deputy mayor Ben Fry shared with the Western Advocate.

Mr Fry emphasized that safety measures top the priority list.

"Crowd amenities and tourism-focused initiatives rank lower, and we'll engage relevant ministers on those separately later," he added.

"Safety has guided every decision in building this list."

Pursuing federal dollars allows the council to sidestep extra local contributions, following over $10 million earmarked in its 2024/25 budget for Mount Panorama projects that hinged on grants which failed to materialize.

Nationals candidate Sam Farraway pledged nearly $15 million in upgrades while vying for the Calare seat in the November 2025 federal election, but independent MP Andrew Gee held onto the position.

Mr Gee now spearheads the current federal outreach efforts.

The council's 2025/26 budget sets aside $100,000 for barrier improvements, $400,000 for fibre-optic upgrades, and $5.5 million for circuit operations.

Upgrade discussions intensified after drainage problems marred the 2022 Bathurst 1000, with heavy rains forcing the cancellation of the Saturday Top 10 Shootout.

The 2026 Repco Bathurst 1000 is slated for October 8-12.