The Queensland Government says the Local Government, Water and Volunteers Budget announced today is the foundation of a fresh start and plan for the State’s future.
The Budget is set to deliver $200 million over two years from 2027–28, and $100 million each year ongoing to support jobs and infrastructure in regional communities, for the local government support program, said Treasurer, David Janetzki.
“We promised a fresh start for Queensland and that’s exactly what this Budget delivers,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“After crises in youth crime, health, housing and cost of living, this Budget delivers the foundations for safety where you live, health services when you need them, a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and a plan for Queensland’s future.”
Almost $38 million will deliver on the Government’s election commitment to progress the business case for the Water for Warrill project, build new weirs at Barlil and Cooranga in the North and South Burnett regions, and five new or upgraded weirs on the Thompson Rover near Longreach.
Local Government will receive a major boost in the Budget, with more than $18 million over four years to fund local government priority projects including:
- $9.3 million for improvements to playgrounds, toilet blocks and car parking facilities;
- $5.7 million to improve infrastructure for local communities including upgrades to town halls and other community infrastructure;
- $3 million for CCTV and security cameras in local communities.
Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers, Ann Leahy said the Government was delivering water security and support for local Councils.
“Unlocking water is the key to delivering economic opportunity to our rural and regional communities, which is why we delivering more water security in this Budget,” Ms Leahy said.
“With new weirs, water infrastructure and cost relief for irrigators, we are ensuring every drop of water will be put to good use growing our local economies.
“Queenslanders deserve to know their water sources are secure, drought resilient and that there is capacity for economic growth when they want it.
“Labor’s decade mismanagement left Queenslanders with no new water infrastructure in over a decade and Councils struggling to deliver the infrastructure and services they needed to keep their communities thriving.
“We are also delivering certainty and support for local government, with a permanent Works for Queensland program and a boost to Betterment, which will help communities build back better after natural disasters,” the Minister said.
