$26 million for community projects across Queensland: Fraser

6 March 2007

$26 million for community projects across Queensland: Fraser

Regional councils across the state were today handed a $26 million funding boost to build a myriad of community projects including parklands, community centres, town centre revitalisations and tourism facilities.

Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser announced the subsidies for councils from the SunshineCoast to Cairns as part of the funding package which will be shared among 23 local governments throughout the state.

Mr Fraser said it would allow the councils to undertake a range of projects funded under the unique Regional Centres Program – a scheme which aims to improve the social, cultural, environmental and economic fabric of Queensland communities.

“This Program not only allows councils to undertake projects they may not otherwise be able to afford to fund but it enables regional towns to showcase their unique identities,” Mr Fraser said.

“In turn, the grants have the potential to increase employment opportunities and living standards across the state.

“What we are seeing today with the allocation of this funding is a multitude of very significant projects – very worthwhile projects - that will make a true difference in regional communities throughout the state.

“Queensland has a higher percentage of people living in regional communities than any other state.

“So, it’s important that government supports projects like these to help these communities grow.”

Mr Fraser said some of the key projects included:

• $2 million for Tyto Wetlands Centre in Ingham
• $3.1 million for the town centre revitalisation in Emerald
• $2.5 million for stage three of the Ross River Parkway in Townsville
• $2.2 million for beautification of Maryborough CBD
• $1.9 million for a new library and community centre in Rockhampton
• $1.5 million for renewal of Mount Isa CBD
• $1.5 million for redevelopment of Cairns Botanic Gardens

Media Contact Chris Taylor 3227 8825 or Selina Steele 3224 6509