RACQ welcomes Labor Government’s first Budget
RACQ welcomes the Labor Government’s first Federal Budget, including its cut to electric vehicle taxes, investment in Queensland’s land transport infrastructure, road safety programs and the launch of its Disaster Ready Fund.
Principal Economic and Affordability Specialist Dr Ian Jeffreys said the Club was pleased with the commitment to cut taxes and prices on electric cars.
“This incentive will make electric cars more affordable and help Queenslanders transition to sustainable modes of transport,” Dr Jeffreys said.
“We also welcome the investment in a national electric vehicle charging network to help alleviate range anxiety for motorists who want to transition to electric vehicles, as well as hydrogen refuelling stations on our highways, which RACQ believes should be directed to heavy freight.”
Dr Jeffreys said the Club welcomed the $1.47 billion boost to some infrastructure projects in Queensland but noted overall spending on land transport projects had been reduced by $1.6 billion over four years.
“The projects include $586.4 million for major upgrades of the Bruce Highway, as well as funding for detailed planning works for the next stage of the Ipswich Motorway. It’s also positive to see added investment towards the inland highway in regional Queensland - these are all projects we’ve long advocated for,” he said.
“These projects are critical for improving the way we move around the State and ensure our freight corridors are safe and productive.”
RACQ also notes the Government’s decision to extend the $3 billion Road Safety Program to mid-2025 from its previous end-date of mid-2023, as well as maintaining the Black Spot program of $480.6 million.
“The Black Spot funding is a serious and meaningful investment in trying to reduce the road toll and road injuries. It has a proven track record of supporting projects that improve road safety outcomes.”
Dr Jeffreys said RACQ commended the Federal Government’s $200 million-a-year Disaster Ready Fund but was concerned it would not commence until 2023-24.
“Queenslanders will have to endure at least two more disaster seasons before the funding brings real results,” Dr Jeffreys said.
“These funds should be spent this year to protect vulnerable Queensland communities from growing climate impacts.
“The Disaster Ready Fund, once up and running, should put Queensland and Australia on a new path towards greater disaster resilience, strong economies, more accessible insurance and ultimately, cost-of-living relief.”