Bligh Government provides $57m for council environmental projects

Local councils across Queensland will share in $57 million in funding under an innovative new program to help them better manage their environmental needs, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Main Roads and Local Government Annastacia Palaszczuk said today.

Ms Palaszczuk said the three-year Environmental Infrastructure Program (EIP) would create better environmental outcomes for local communities and help mitigate against serious environmental concerns or disasters.

“In a first for Queensland, this program will provide local governments with a minimum of 25 per cent subsidy towards the capital cost of infrastructure projects that will protect our environment,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“Councils will be able to apply for funding for projects such as stormwater management, landfill rehabilitation, catchment protection, beach, river and soil erosion prevention, and flood mitigation.

“Eligible projects will include those that will increase the capacity of natural and built environments to better cope with the likely effects of climate change.”

Ms Palaszczuk said Queenslanders enjoyed a beautiful state with a great climate and the Bligh Government was committed to protecting their lifestyles and environment through its long-term plan for the state, Toward Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland.

“As part of this commitment, we have set the target to protect 50 per cent more land for nature conservation and public recreation,” she said.

“I encourage all councils through the state to apply for funding under this program to ensure our precious environment is protected for current and future generations.”

Applications under the first round of the EIP close on 28 February 2009.

For more information visit www.localgovernment.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819