$14.9m in new infrastructure approvals to help Far North and western Queensland rebuild

JOINT STATEMENT

Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick

Roads damaged by the February monsoon and floods will be rebuilt to a higher standard in the latest round of recovery projects.

The package has been funded under the joint Commonwealth and Queensland Government funding arrangements.

Minister for Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud said $14.9 million in new approvals included more than $10.8 million in Betterment funding for roads.

“This will make our communities safer next time a disaster hits,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Staying connected helps to make sure communities can access vital services in a crisis.

“In Cloncurry $9.4 million go to improving Sedan Dip Road, which was cut for weeks.

“Upgrades on the Richmond to Winton Road and Kennedy Development Road also have the go-ahead.”

Queensland Minister for State Development and Minister responsible for the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) Cameron Dick said the latest infrastructure package also includes more than $3.2 million to ensure Far North Queensland stays open for visitors.

“A gravel section of the Cape Tribulation-Bloomfield Road within Donovan’s Range will be concreted and fitted with improved drainage to provide greater accessibility for residents and visitors during the wet season,” Mr Dick said.

“Passing over the Donovan and Cowie Ranges through World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, Cape tribulation-Bloomfield Road is a huge drawcard for tourism in the region, with spectacular views, beaches, wildlife and history.

“This Betterment funding will allow Douglas Shire Council to increase the longevity of the road, giving visitors the opportunity to bask in the beauty of the region all year round.

“The Palaszczuk Government is proud to support Queensland communities through their recovery, ensuring our essential infrastructure and assets are as resilient as Queenslanders themselves.”

Far North Queensland communities will also receive more than $79,000 for repair works on Oak Park Road in the Etheridge Shire.

Additionally, Carpentaria Shire Council will receive $734,500 as part of the Water and Sewerage package to repair numerous parts of the Normanton Sewerage Treatment Plant that were damaged during the Monsoon Trough.

Betterment, Recreational Assets and Water and Sewerage Infrastructure submissions are part of the $242 million Category C/D Recovery Package jointly funded by Commonwealth and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Delivery of these projects will be rolled out until June 2021. Further information about the $242 million Recovery Package can be found on the QRA website.

ENDS

Media contacts: 

• Robert Herrick 0432 324 576 (Minister Littleproud)
• Ben Doyle 0400 775 561 (Minister Dick)