The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has welcomed a $400 million Federal Coalition commitment to upgrade key roads servicing the cattle and agricultural industries in Central and Western Queensland.
LGAQ CEO, Alison Smith said the funding for Queensland’s Beef Corridors – a strategic supply network of roads stretching more than 2,000km – would provide a significant boost to local economies.
The commitment will pay for the sealing of 457km of roads at a cost of $300 million, with the remaining $100 million being used to extend heavy vehicle corridors along the Dawson, Leichhardt and Burnett Highways.
The Federal commitment will meet up to 80% of the total cost to deliver the upgrades.
“This is a significant win for the prosperity of local towns and communities that rely so heavily on the economic benefits generated by this road network and the industries that rely on it,” Ms Smith said.
She also paid tribute to the state’s Mayors and councils who she says put the campaign for beef corridor upgrades firmly on the agenda.
“It is also a resounding endorsement of the dedicated Central Highlands, Rockhampton, Isaac, Barcaldine, Blackall-Tambo, Woorabinda, Banana and Gladstone Mayors who joined forces to vigorously lobby for urgent improvements through their Queensland Beef Corridors campaign, and I want to thank Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and his colleagues for listening to this advocacy and making this crucial commitment.”
“These Mayors deserve great credit for their advocacy on behalf of their communities and this vital roads network,” said Ms Smith.
