Strong Plan helps councils build resilience

The 2014-15 State Budget will support the Queensland Government’s push to rebuild from natural disasters and make Queensland Australia’s most resilient state.

Treasurer Tim Nicholls said the Government was making strong choices in order to deliver a brighter future for Queensland.

“This budget outlines our plan to secure our finances by making the strongest and smartest choice to reduce Queensland’s $80 billion debt so we can invest in future infrastructure,” Mr Nicholls said.

“With our finances in a stronger position we will also be able to better withstand the costs of the natural disasters we know will come our way.”

Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli said the 2014-15 State Budget allocated more than $1 billion for local councils.

Mr Crisafulli said funds were being spent responsibly to help councils repair and improve public infrastructure.

“Queensland has been ravaged by natural disasters in the past few years and we are determined to do everything we can to not only help communities recover but also be better prepared in the future,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“We are working with councils to ensure they deliver projects that show value-for-money and make sense.”

This year’s Budget provides nearly $155 million for grants and subsidies to local councils, including more than $51 million for disaster mitigation and resilience projects.

More than $8.7 million will be spent on infrastructure projects, $2 million for the Get Ready Queensland disaster preparedness program, $2 million to combat graffiti and $2 million in grants to show societies.

For the first time, councils will also receive 30 per cent of their successful grant up front so they can get started on their projects straight away.

“We have a strong plan to work with local councils to invest in their communities so we can all share in a brighter future,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Not only are we standing by those hit by natural disasters, we are determined to help people prepare for future events as we strive to make Queensland Australia’s most resilient state.”

[ENDS] 3 June 2014

Media Contact: Andrew Longmire 0418 216 627