- The Albanese and Palaszczuk Governments have committed to a combined $80 million to overhaul Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area marine infrastructure.
- The most significant investment in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area marine infrastructure in 30 years.
- The marine infrastructure program will take place over six years and create up to 100 jobs.
The Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area will receive the most significant investment in marine infrastructure in 30 years, creating up to 100 jobs.
The Queensland Government has matched the $40 million investment that the Australian Government delivered in the October Federal Budget.
This now sees the Australian and State governments coming together to deliver a combined investment of $80 million in funding.
The $80 million in funding is jointly split between the Federal Government and the Queensland Government, each committing $40 million towards the program.
This investment will go towards improving marine infrastructure in the region, by overhauling jetties, wharves, boat ramps and more.
This comes after a recent engineering report into the condition of marine infrastructure in the region identified a need for safer, more appropriate and accessible infrastructure for the communities.
Repairs and upgrades to infrastructure will happen in a staged process based on engineering priorities and consultation with local communities.
The Australian, Queensland and local governments will work in conjunction to identify priorities for investment.
The announcement comes as the Palaszczuk Government prepares to hold a Torres Strait and NPA Cost of Living Summit on Monday, March 20.
The Queensland Premier announced the summit would be held last year as part of the Thursday Island Community Cabinet held in September 2022.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“Our joint funding commitment will support the vital marine infrastructure upgrades Torres Straight and Northern Peninsula area communities need to safely and efficiently stay connected.
“This is also yet another demonstration of the Albanese Government’s commitment to developing Australia’s regions by delivering funding for projects that create jobs, build opportunity and unlock economic growth.”
Quotes attributable to the Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk:
“The waterways surrounding the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area make up the blue highway for those who live, work and travel in the region.
“Our government recognises how important the connection to water is, which is why we’re making the most significant investment in Torres Strait marine infrastructure in 30 years.
“This investment is creating 100 local jobs while delivering better, safer access to the communities that rely on this infrastructure the most.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey:
This program will provide modern, fit-for-purpose infrastructure that will not only improve safety but will be resilient to climate, and will help boost the region’s economy.
“The strait is the community’s blue highway and we’re ensuring the jetties, wharves, and boat ramps this community depends on keeps locals moving safely.”
Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland Nita Green:
“This record investment will go a long way towards improving how the community operates in the Torres Strait.
“This infrastructure is not only needed to deliver supplies or to get from one place to another – it’s vital for maintaining this community’s way of life, culture, and livelihoods.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Cook Cynthia Lui:
“Our community relies on this infrastructure every day to visit the shops, access medical facilities, and remain connected with one another.
“Before we commence delivery, we will consult the community. It’s important that they have their say on the design of marine infrastructure to make sure it addresses their concerns and meets their needs.”
