North Queenslanders and people with disability overlooked by LNP again

North Queenslanders and some of the state’s most vulnerable have again missed out on key Federal funding at the hands of the LNP Government.

Minister for Disability Services, Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland and Mundingburra MP Coralee O’Rourke said Joe Hockey was loaning North Queensland its economic future, not investing in it.

“Last night Mr Hockey said the words ‘north’ and ‘Queensland’ a lot, what he didn’t say was any one project in the north he’d actually fund,” she said.

“Why hasn’t the Federal Government matched Premier Palaszczuk’s commitment to Townsville’s $210 million stadium?

“The truth is Joe Hockey isn’t serious about regional infrastructure.

“His $5 billion Northern Infrastructure Fund is a step in the right direction, but it does come with strings attached.

“Mr Hockey, we need to see real cash for real, shovel-ready projects – not just more vague promises.”

Minister O’Rourke said the Abbott Government had also failed to address the chronic housing shortage for people with disability.

“Last night’s budget showed us that Tony Abbott is not willing to front up with the National Disability Insurance Scheme funding when it comes to giving people with disability the support they need,” she said.

"In what has become a trademark of the Abbott Government, they will not listen and are ignoring what is best for people with disability, the construction industry and the broader community.

"People with disability should have the opportunity to choose to live near their families, friends, amenities and employment opportunities, just like everybody else.  

“The National Disability Insurance Agency has said numerous times that there is $700 million per year available across the country to spend on housing.

“It’s unbelievable that the Abbott Government won’t use this funding for its intended purpose.”

Media Contact:                                  Minister O’Rourke’s office                 3719 7184