Drivers will need mobile phone coverage to access the QR codes that are linked to the Outback Roads Warnings website, so they can quickly check whether heavy rain or other events have closed roads ahead or made them unsafe.

Regional Roads Minister Geoff Brock said warning signs are also being installed on many unsealed roads, warning travellers that heavy rain could quickly make their route inaccessible.

These also will have the QR code and a hotline number taking callers to a recorded warnings report.

Brock urged drivers to stop at signs for a few minutes to check on road conditions saying it “could save you a world of trouble or could even save your life”.

“Weather conditions in the outback can change quickly, and it is critical that travellers on our unsealed road network have the latest available road condition information,” he said.

“Heavy or prolonged rainfall events can make our unsealed roads very dangerous and closing them quickly during weather emergencies can save lives.”