Major investment in state’s electricity network

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said more than $9 billion was being spent on electricity infrastructure in Queensland over 5 years to make the electricity network stronger and safer for all Queenslanders.

“Compare our record to that of the Opposition. When they last had control of the electricity network they plunged the state into darkness for four days.

“It was chaos and it went on for four whole days. Now they want to bring in veto powers to return Queensland to the dark ages and to align electricity prices with CPI. Their veto plan would cost Queenslanders $620 million. What vital services will they cut to do this?

“Will they shut down hospitals or schools? Will they cut jobs? What about those Ergon Energy control centre staff who worked through yesterday’s savage storm? Will their jobs be cut?

Minister Wilson said electricity prices in Queensland were among the cheapest in the country.

“And households and small businesses in regional Queensland are protected from rising prices through generous State Government subsidies,” he said.

“Last year, we gave households and small businesses right across regional Queensland more than $600 million to bring down the cost of their electricity bills. That works out to around $1,000 per household a year.

“We want people to have access to affordable electricity no matter where they live. Without our subsidy their bills would be around $1,000 higher. You have to ask: Will the Opposition scrap our subsidy?

Minister Wilson said while the Bligh Government is getting on with the job of tackling climate change and delivering vital electricity infrastructure to all Queenslanders, the Opposition is making reckless, irresponsible promises that will cut jobs, services, building projects and an ever bigger hole in the ozone layer.

Minister Wilson said Queensland’s electricity network was now stronger than ever.

“Power was restored quickly after yesterday’s severe storms hit parts of regional Queensland. The Opposition should know by now that you can’t restore power quickly without a strong and reliable electricity network.

“The Bligh Government will continue to invest in vital infrastructure and protect the jobs of people in the industry because good governments, responsible governments plan for the future,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819