Federal Liberal-National coalition owes central Queensland motorists big money for roads

Figures released today show that central Queensland motorists are pumping $17 million every year into Canberra’s coffers in fuel tax.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt has called on Nationals leader and federal Transport Minister Mark Vaile end the neglect of central Queensland and give the money back by investing in better roads.

“Every time motorists fill up their tank they’re not just pumping petrol – they’re pumping taxes directly to the Federal Government.

“Thirty-eight cents from each litre goes straight to Canberra as fuel excise,” Mr Pitt said.

“That means motorists in Barcaldine, Jericho, Emerald, Blackwater and Duaringa are sending Mr Vaile $17 million every year – and what have they got to show for it?

“Precious little. It’s highway robbery, pure and simple.”

Mr Pitt said that central Queensland was booming thanks to the mining industry, but the Federal Government had been missing in action when it came to providing better infrastructure.

“Since the Howard Government was elected they have collected untold millions of dollars in fuel taxes from local motorists, but when it’s time to invest in upgrading roads, they’re missing in action.

“The Capricorn Highway is the lifeline of the Central Highlands and I challenge Mr Vaile to give back some of the fuel tax he collects by investing in this road.”

Traffic volumes on the Capricorn Highway are rising by 20 per cent a year, and the State Government has invested $17 million over the last three years on resealing, widening, intersection upgrades and shoulder sealing.

“We spend every cent we collect in registration fees on roads, and in the next two years we’ll spend $11 million on further upgrades to this important artery,” Mr Pitt said.

This includes projects east and west of Yamala to upgrade 25km of highway by widening, sealing shoulders and improving the road surface and a $2 million project to provide six new stopping bays between Rockhampton and Gogango.

“While this is a significant investment by the Bligh Government, federal funds would enable us to do even more,” Mr Pitt said.

“But central Queensland residents should remember this: any federal funding will only be a small return on the millions they’ve paid in fuel tax.

“It’s about time Mark Vaile ended the neglect and delivered the money central Queensland motorists are owed.”

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819