A spokesman for Monaro Local Area Command said police and other emergency services attending the accident, which occurred near Bankers Road, Bywong, about at about 4.30pm on Thursday.

A 19-year-old Ngunnawal male driving a blue Lancer sedan was travelling east and according to police, collided with a gold Nissan four-wheel-drive travelling in the opposite direction driven by a 60-year-old man, also from Canberra. 

“As a result of the high impact collision both drivers were trapped in their respective vehicles,” a police spokesman said.

A 19-year-old female passenger in the Lancer was able to free herself. 

The road was closed for several hours while emergency services worked to free the men.

The 19-year-old male was airlifted to Canberra Hospital with multiple injuries. His condition is listed as critical.

The 60-year-old driver is also in hospital after suffering a neck injury. Police said his condition is listed as stable.

The circumstances of this collision are being investigated. Witnesses are urged to contact the Queanbeyan Police on 6298 0555.