The Local Government Association of Queensland thanks Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Treasurer Cameron Dick and Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe for supporting the LGAQ’s Battleplan for Queensland Local Communities.
LGAQ CEO Greg Hallam said today’s commitment of an additional $200 million for a COVID Works for Queensland program - including funding for southeast Queensland and regional councils - would ensure all communities could benefit.
“Councils stand at the ready to work in partnership with the State to create jobs, build infrastructure and help Queensland communities emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger,” Mr Hallam said.
“We welcome the initial commitment of the Government to an additional $200 million Works for Queensland program.
“This announcement means councils can start rolling out job-creating projects within weeks, helping bolster the construction, tourism, small business and agricultural sectors.
“Expanding a proven job-creating program statewide means no community will be left behind.”
Mr Hallam welcomed the $400 million Accelerated Works Program to deliver new road, bridge and pavement sealing works across Queensland.
“Add to this the $70 million commitment to Building Our Regions program and local economies will have the shot in the arm they desperately need to do the heavy lifting,” he said.
“We look forward to continuing our discussions with the Government on other measures contained within the LGAQ’s battleplan as we work together to help Queensland recover.”
The announcement follows a submission made to the Government on Friday containing hundreds of shovel-ready projects councils stand ready to deliver under the LGAQ’s battleplan.
“This shows the power of governments working together, it shows pragmatic and decisive leadership and importantly puts Queensland communities at the centre of decisions that will impact their lives.” Mr Hallam said.
For more information, please contact:
Sarah Vogler, Media Executive
Local Government Association of Queensland