The Palaszczuk Government has announced more than $400 million in new, accelerated funding for Queensland roads to supercharge the state’s economy through the COVID-19 recovery.
The funding boost was announced as part of The Queensland Economic Recovery Strategy: Unite and recover for Queensland Jobs, to help the State recover from COVID-19 with a focus on backing Queensland jobs.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the boost would see new projects added to the state’s $23 billion, 21,500-job pipeline of transport and road upgrades.
“This is about investing in Queensland infrastructure to create Queensland jobs as we unite and recover from COVID-19,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“Our laser focus is on managing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s investing in infrastructure and jobs that is crucial to tackling those economic impacts head-on.”
The stimulus package includes $200 million in funding to increase resilience, widen and seal key freight routes across the state as well as upgrade older bridges and culverts, which is a direct injection for regional jobs and will help support council crews.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the construction industry plays an essential role in keeping the state’s economy moving and it was vital that Queensland doesn’t lose momentum on its record roads and transport investment.
“Today’s announcement of accelerated funding adds to more than $23 billion rolling out across Queensland roads and transport, and I want every Queenslander to know that we continue to deliver those projects because it means support for 21,500 jobs, including 13,500 in our regions,” Mr Bailey said.
“The vast majority of this $400 million will go directly to our regions, supporting 360 jobs and helping us pave the way to recovery.
