The Morrison Government should step up and deliver its fair share of funding to Queensland projects.
Federal Urban Infrastructure Minister Alan Tudge today said the states have the greatest capacity to pick up the pace on fast tracking infrastructure.
“That’s exactly what the Palaszczuk Government is doing with Cross River Rail without a single cent from Canberra. We are getting on with it because it will make a positive difference to the lives of Queenslanders who commute the length and breadth of the South East region every day for work,” Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad said.
“The capacity-building $5.4 billion Cross River Rail is Queensland’s biggest infrastructure project, and ticks all of the boxes for economic activity and productivity.
“We’re already rolling on with early works underway and 7,700 jobs in the pipeline over the life of the project.”
Ms Trad said there were a range of Queensland projects that the Morrison Government was currently funding beyond the forward estimates period, where funding could be brought forward.
“If they are ready to talk about fast tracking infrastructure then I’m keen to discuss bringing forward funding for the M1 upgrades, Mackay Ring Road, Rockhampton Ring road and Cairns South Access Stage 5 road ugrade,” Ms Trad said.
“There’s also the next stage of Gold Coast Light Rail and the duplication of the Sunshine Coast line.”
“These are examples of priority projects that should be invested in now instead of backing projects that aren’t yet shovel ready like Melbourne airport rail and fast rail to Geelong which were funded by Canberra without even a business case.
“It’s also time for the Leader of the Opposition to stand up for Queensland’s interest in Canberra and advocate for investment in these key projects.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was already delivering $23 billion in roads and transport, including jointly funded projects, over the next four years.
“One of the biggest frustrations is that a lot of the Morrison Government’s infrastructure spending for some of our most important roads and transport projects doesn’t kick in for another four years,” Mr Bailey said.
“Queensland stands ready, willing and able to fast-track a plethora of job and projectivity supporting infrastructure if only the Morrison Government would put its hand in its pocket and let us get on with job of delivering for Queenslanders.
“Only last week they wanted Queensland to sell off its publicly owned assets with the promise of additional infrastructure spending. The Morrison Government should rule that out, as they know our assets aren’t for sale.
“The Palaszczuk Government just wants Queensland’s fair share of funding from Canberra, not funding road blocks.”
