In the lead-up to the state budget on June 13 we focus on key Qld policy issues and programs the LGAQ are campaigning for on behalf of its member councils. This week, the spotlight is on the Works For Queensland Program.
The LGAQ has called for the upcoming State Budget to provide a $300 million extension to the Works for Queensland program to ensure the benefits to Queensland communities continue.
The benefits of the program can already be seen in the shape of three critical infrastructure projects in the Indigenous council shires of Yarrabah and Woorabinda.
Yarrabah Shire Council Mayor Ross Andrews said the Yarrabah Beautification Project, funded by the program, has been critical for both employment and community morale.
“It really raised their self-esteem, injected a lot of pride back into the community and was encouraging given the challenges around the labour market,” Mayor Andrews said.
The project, which currently supports 35 new jobs, includes an upgrade to a range of infrastructure including fencing, walkways, a sports oval and incorporates a strong caring for country component; the correct and sustainable management of traditional lands.
Woorabinda also received funding from the program to upgrade water pumps in the nearby town of Baralba and install a new filter in the sewerage treatment plant.
Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council works manager Neville Perkins said without the funding maintaining infrastructure would be difficult, particularly since the reduction of State Government Financial Aid and the cancellation of Municipal Services Funding.
“Last year the Municipal Services Funding was taken away, and since then we have struggled for funding for water and sewerage reticulation. The Works for Queensland funding has given us extra money to make sure our infrastructure is in good shape,” Mr Perkins said.
CEO of Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council Emil Moul said the funding was timely given expected growth in the community.
“We are in the process of building 23 new houses which is why it was essential to put money towards upgrading the infrastructure. The capacity of the town needed to increase to support the extra houses being built,” Mr Moul said.
LGAQ Senior Advisor for Water Services and Infrastructure Arron Hieatt said the projects will have multiple benefits for the community.
“The upgrade of the pumps will mean more water can be pumped to the town, which will allow the community to grow. It’s a great outcome. It’s also a positive move towards future-proofing the community’s water resources,” Mr Hieatt said.
“Additionally, the installation of a new water filter in the sewerage treatment plant will mean the farm land that was once irrigated by the treated water will be up and running again. Not only will the treated water be used in a meaningful way, it will also eventually be possible for the council to derive income from the crops grown on the farm land.”
The Works For Queensland Program has supported a total of 723 projects across Queensland Communities, created 2711 new jobs and supported 2989 existing jobs.
You can see the full LGAQ State Budget Submission here.