The Premier has announced $50 million in projects across South East Queensland as part of the state’s economic recovery plan to create jobs and build important shovel-ready community infrastructure.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said 1500 jobs would be supported or created with the funding going to 12 South East Queensland councils for 63 projects under the Queensland Government’s $50 million Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package.
“This package builds on the $50 million allocated to the 12 SEQ councils through the COVID Works for Queensland program to make $100 million worth of job-creating projects aimed at helping the region unite and recover from the impacts of the global pandemic,” the Premier said.
“Projects including building a new BMX precinct at Brendale, revitalising the Mooloolaba Foreshore, improvements to the Beenleigh CBD, and a new path and boardwalk near Frenchmans Beach on North Stradbroke Island.
“This package is an integral part of Queensland’s plan to stimulate the economy at a time when the major economies across the globe are hurting.”
Minister for Local Government Stirling Hinchliffe said the positive effects will be felt almost immediately.
“The Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package will help our councils build new and upgraded infrastructure and give their communities’ economies a boost,” he said.
“From Noosa to the Gold Coast and from Toowoomba to Moreton Bay, councils estimate more than 1500 jobs will be created or supported through 63 projects for the communities.
“This is a fantastic result for our most densely populated region, which has felt the effects of the pandemic more than anywhere else in Queensland through the forced closure of businesses and borders.
“Our councils have also been doing it tough with the closure of services, provision of community support concessions and reduced revenue, including rates and charges revenue, all while leading their communities.
“This program is allowing the councils to fast-track new infrastructure and community assets, and in doing so, helping to get the communities back on their feet faster.
“It’s a wonderful example of the two levels of government working together to get Queensland through these unprecedented times stronger and even more united.”
LGAQ President and Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said the stimulus package was a great example of what can be achieved through a strong partnership between the State and councils.
“This critical funding boost will allow South East Queensland councils to create and support jobs at a time when their communities need help the most,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“This package, combined with the special $200 million COVID-19 Works for Queensland funding, will play an important role in rebuilding the economic fabric of local communities”.
The councils eligible for Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package funding are Brisbane City, Gold Coast City, Ipswich City, Lockyer Valley Regional, Logan City, Moreton Bay Regional, Noosa Shire, Redland City, Scenic Rim Regional, Somerset Regional, Sunshine Coast Regional and Toowoomba Regional Councils.
