Project pipeline taps into jobs and growth in Mackay

The Palaszczuk Government is delivering a four-year $52.2 billion infrastructure pipeline, including 56 projects across Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday, to stimulate job creation and further grow our economy.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Queensland Government Infrastructure Pipeline (QGIP), released today, was a key part of the Mackay-Whitsunday Economic Recovery Plan. 

“Thanks to our strong health response, we’re in the best possible position to create more jobs in Mackay,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“The population in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region is projected to grow by 24 per cent to 215,905 by 2036.

“Queensland’s new infrastructure pipeline includes over 55 projects to meet the needs of our growing region.

“Projects include upgrades to police facilities in Mackay and Clermont and road upgrades on the Bruce and Peak Downs highway.

“There is significant investment in education and training infrastructure in the region including a new Agricultural Centre of Excellence in Bowen, Aquaculture Training Centre in the Whitsundays and expanding the Mackay Ooralea Trade Training Centre.

“These projects are delivering jobs as part of our economic recovery plan.” 

Deputy Premier and Infrastructure Minister Steven Miles said the Queensland Government Infrastructure Pipeline (QGIP) includes more than 1000 projects in delivery and planning across Queensland.

“The $52.2 billion four-year capital program will continue to be the cornerstone of our economic recovery plan and deliver on our $50 billion Infrastructure Guarantee,” Mr Miles said.

“In 2021-22, $14.7 billion is being invested, with more than 60 per cent being spent outside Greater Brisbane. 

“This is expected to directly support around 46,500 jobs – nearly 30,000 of these in the regions.

“Last financial year, we delivered 93 per cent of our capital program budget.

“In dollar terms, this is one of the best performances over the last decade and a notable achievement given the disruption caused by COVID-19.”

Mr Miles said QGIP brings together the current capital program and adds a planning pipeline that details proposals that are in the planning stage and still subject to further consideration.

“Providing early visibility of potential future infrastructure projects, in addition to the delivery pipeline of funded increases industry confidence in Queensland as a place to invest,” he said.

“We are leveraging more investment in Queensland and driving jobs growth as part of our economic recovery.”

Queenslanders are also being encouraged to have their say on the draft 20-year State Infrastructure Strategy (SIS) now open for consultation.

The draft strategy sets out the Queensland Government’s approach to connecting regions and creating liveable communities with essential services and infrastructure.

Comment can be provided online with consultation opening on today (9 September) and set to close on 7 October 2021: https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/state-infrastructure-strategy

To view the QGIP visit: https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/industry/infrastructure/infrastructure-planning-and-policy

ENDS

Media contact:           Amy Hunter – 0423 651 484