- Funding increase will be allocated to 65 regional councils
- The boost takes the total to $800 million
- Projects have resulted in 21,000 jobs
The Queensland Government has given a boost to 65 regional councils as part of the Works for Queensland program.
The extra $200 million means that a total of $800 million has been spent on the program, designed to boost projects for councils especially outside of the South-East corner where most of the Queensland population lives.
The funding has facilitated councils in building roads and pathways, parks, sporting facilities and playgrounds which the Queensland Government says will improve livability in local communities whilst creating new jobs.
Other eligible projects include town beautifications and renewable energy installations.
“We made a commitment to regional communities during the election that we would continue this fantastic program and we are living up to that commitment
“So far, more than 21,000 jobs have been created or supported in areas of the state where they are needed most.
“That is a fantastic result with the State delivering for local businesses, local tradies and most importantly, local families.”
Annastacia Palaszczuk, Queensland Premier
Previous Work for Queensland projects have been diverse ranging from returfed football fields and netball courts at the Fraser Coast Sports Precinct to new cycling and walking tracks in Mount Isa.
“I encourage councils to put forward projects for consideration that are shovel ready and can start delivering jobs for locals right now.
“I’ve seen firsthand the impact some of these projects have had for their communities, I know that this fourth round will deliver even more.”
Steven Miles, Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government
Mark Jamieson, the Local Government Association of Queensland President and Sunshine Coast Council Mayor, said Works for Queensland shows how communities can improve when two levels of governments can work effectively together.
“This program’s success comes from its targeted focus on funding projects that can be rolled out quickly to provide opportunities and improved facilities for local communities
“Councils have strongly supported the continuation of Works for Queensland and we welcome the release of this new round of the program at a time when job-creation has never been more important.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Queensland Government to maintain this program into the future.”
Mayor Mark Jamieson, Local Gov Association Qld President
