Federal Government commits funding to Cross River Rail

The Palaszczuk Government has secured the support of the Turnbull Government to finalise planning for Cross River Rail.

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said the Federal Government has agreed to join the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority and committed an initial $10 million for further development of the project.

“Cross River Rail is our highest priority infrastructure project which will fundamentally transform South East Queensland,” Ms Trad said.

“This is a city-shaping project that will be a driver of new jobs, better housing and increased productivity.

“The cooperation of the Turnbull Government will help expedite the completion of the initial stages of Cross River Rail and is the next step towards fully funding this project.

“I’m delighted Malcolm Turnbull has come on board and agreed to partner with us moving forward.”

Ms Trad called on Tim Nicholls and the state opposition to join their federal colleagues and embrace the opportunity of Cross River Rail.

“We are taking the politics out of building Cross River Rail,” Ms Trad said.  

“The Turnbull Government has recognised its potential and so has the Brisbane City Council.

“The Nicholls opposition are now isolated with no vision or plans for the future.

“I call on Tim Nicholls and the opposition to join their federal and council colleagues and support Cross River Rail, a project that is vital for South East Queensland’s future growth.

“Our only frustration with Cross River Rail is that it is not currently under construction because the Newman-Nicholls Government tore up a 50/50 funding deal with the Federal Government in 2013.”

ENDS

Media contact: Anna Jabour 0429 890 942