Almost 500 new Works for Queensland projects announced

Regional Queensland communities are set for a major jobs boost with 494 new job-supporting Works for Queensland projects now in the pipeline.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the newly approved projects as part of the $200 million third round of Works for Queensland funding in Parliament today.

“This vital funding is about getting people into work and is being used by councils for new parks, gardens, roads and other community facilities that are improving many regional towns and cities,” the Premier said.

“Councils estimate that the 494 new projects will create or support more than 4,500 jobs, which is a fantastic result for regional Queensland families.

“This is on top of the more than 14,000 jobs supported by the first two rounds of Works for Queensland, making the program a regional jobs powerhouse.

“I have seen first-hand the direct benefits our communities receive through Works for Queensland and I congratulate councils on their successful projects.”

Some of the projects include:

• In the Cook electorate – upgrading the Mareeba Swimming Pool filtration system, and replacing Anzac Avenue Bridge, total of $710,000.
• In Barron River - upgrades to play equipment and soft surfaces in Gregory Terrace Park, Kuranda, at a cost of $70,000.
• In Cairns - upgrades to Esplanade Plaza, worth $650,000
• In Nanango – footpath replacement in the Murgon CBD, a $500,000 project
• In Townsville region - construction of a new ferry terminal, and upgrades at the Palm Island Motel, a total of $2.8 million. Park upgrades including shade sails and exercise equipment, new playgrounds along with footpath upgrades, cycling facilities and rehabilitation of sports fields for recreation. More than $11 million being invested in the region.
• In Mackay - upgrades at Northview Park and Blue Water Lagoon playgrounds at a value of around $1.181 million
• In Rockhampton - zoo improvements with the construction of a new reptile enclosure, and construction of fishing platforms along the Fitzroy River, around $1.1 million.
• In Keppel - construction of the Emu Park Community Arts Hub, with a $800,000 contribution
• In Warrego – security upgrades to the Charleville Airport at a cost of $200,000.
• In Maryborough - upgrades to the Maryborough Aquatic Centre to the value of $131,000.

Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said all up, Works for Queensland represents $600 million investment in regional Queensland.

“These projects create and support local jobs, boost local economies and improve liveability in towns and cities throughout regional Queensland,” he said.

The projects are required to be completed by June 2021.

Works for Queensland is designed to help councils deliver new infrastructure or improve the condition of existing assets such as parks and playgrounds, swimming pools and water play areas, footpaths, roads, sewers, community and sports facilities and renewable energy initiatives.

For more information visit: www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/works-for-queensland

ENDS

Media contact:

Zoe Russell (Premier’s office) – 0439 982 347

Martin Philip (Minister Hinchliffe’s office) - 0427 919 548