Queensland First Nations councils are calling for a permanent road funding boost in the June State Budget, warning that access in and out of their communities is at risk under current funding arrangements.
The councils have joined the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) in calling for a permanent increase to the budget of the Transport and Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS).
The critical funding program supports the local transport infrastructure needs of communities across Queensland.
The LGAQ is calling for TIDS funding to be boosted from almost $76 million to $100 million a year in the State Budget, which includes a specific allocation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander TIDS funding each year dedicated to the upgrade of transport infrastructure that improves primary access (road, air and sea) for Queensland First Nations communities.
LGAQ President and Gladstone Mayor, Matt Burnett said ageing infrastructure in First Nations communities poses an ongoing risk to community safety and connectivity.
“Queensland’s First Nations communities are in some of the state’s most remote locations, often with limited access in and out during the wet season,” President Burnett said.
“We need a long-term funding commitment to allow these councils to work in genuine partnership with the State to build safer, more resilient road networks and assets.
“First Nations Queenslanders need reliable access to their communities and we’re calling on the State Government to ensure proper funding for the infrastructure they need.
“Well-maintained roads are essential to keeping First Nation’s communities connected, improving access to critical services and maintaining connection during natural disasters.”
Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor, Phillemon Mosby said reliable roads connect residents to the services they need.
“These projects deliver safer access, smoother travel and healthier living conditions for our communities. Reliable roads connect residents to schools, health services and shops, and mean people no longer have to walk or drive through heavily damaged roads filled with potholes and mud during the wet season. They also ensure freight and essential supplies can reach our islands more efficiently and safely,” the Mayor said.
“Our region is unique, and with that comes unique challenges. We rely on grant funding to deliver vital infrastructure that is permanent and fit for purpose. A fair increase to our road funding is essential if Torres Strait communities are to thrive.”
Deputy Mayor of Aurukun Shire Council, Craig Koomeeta said cyclones, severe weather events and the prolonged wet season all have significant impact on local roads.
“We have one road in and out of Aurukun – and upgrades are essential to reduce non-access period during the wet season. Ahead of the State Budget in June – we are joining councils in calling for this vital infrastructure funding program to be boosted.”
“Roads are vital for transporting patients and our elders to healthcare in Weipa – we need safe roads to ensure our people are protected.”
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor, Bruce Gibson said the Council’s ability to grow community, support local businesses and unlock tourism opportunities all depends on safe, reliable and accessible transport infrastructure.
“In a community like ours, roads are essential. State programs like TIDS are critical to making this possible. Increasing this funding would help maintain existing roads and deliver new connections our community needs to continue to grow. The safety of our travelling public, is integral to our future and the Hopevale Shire Council will continue to encourage any contribution to the safety of our community,” he said.
Mapoon is located on the western side of the Cape and is heavily reliant on the state of the Queensland road network, said Mayor, Ronaldo Gulvarra.
“When there are floods or road outages we effectively turn into an island which drives up the cost of living, doing business and affects local health,” he said.
“A funding boost would offset rising construction costs and protect liveability in remote indigenous communities.”
