Record roads cash splash for Queensland

Media release

Club spokesperson Paul Turner said all Queenslanders would benefit from the $3.9 billion increase in funding for key infrastructure projects over the next four years, including Bruce Highway upgrades and the Coomera Connector Stage 1 project.

“This funding will secure around 26,000 jobs across the State. If there is a COVID-19 silver lining for 2020 it will be a legacy of critical infrastructure Queenslanders desperately need,” Mr Turner said.

“We welcome the $765 million funding for the Coomera Connector Stage 1, the $2.1 billion injection for the Gateway Motorway and Bruce Highway upgrades in the south east, almost $3 billion for the Pacific Motorway and $244 million to upgrade the Centenary Bridge.

“Commuters have been crying out for these critical projects on routes which consistently make our most congested roads lists, so we’re pleased they’re being prioritised.

“We’re also pleased to see $709.9 million for extensions to the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 project and $550.8 million for the Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication to make public transport more viable.”

Mr Turner said regional Queensland did not miss out, with $17.8 billion allocated for critical projects to cut congestion and improve road safety.

“With more than $1.18 billion in funding towards targeted road safety initiatives, like low-cost, high-benefit treatments across Queensland, more motorists will survive their drives,” he said.

“We’ve already lost 248 lives on our roads so far this year, which is sadly more than the total lives lost last year.”

Mr Turner said estimated increases for public transport revenue over the next four years needed Government clarification as to whether it related to boosted patronage or hiked fares.

“Paying more in public transport fares combined with hikes to rego and vehicle stamp duty will hit Queenslanders hard. We urge the Government to freeze any increases.”