South East Queensland councils are set to share in $100 million for projects that deliver critical housing and local infrastructure, jobs and essential services across the fast-growing region, the state’s local government minister has announced.
The funding will be available to the 12 SEQ councils through the second $100 million round of the Miles Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program.
Minister for Local Government, Meaghan Scanlon (pictured) released the new program guidelines yesterday ahead of meeting with South East Queensland’s mayors in Brisbane.
“Queensland needs more houses, and I am pulling every lever to deliver them,” said Ms Scanlon.
“We’re investing not only in critical infrastructure but also in the sustainability of our councils, with the option to strengthen their workforces and plan for key infrastructure needs.”
The program aims to fast-track investment in critical infrastructure and community assets, such as water supply and maintenance, roads and drainage, disaster resilience projects, community buildings and works to prepare sites for future housing development.
Under the new round, some councils will be able to put part of their allocated funding towards planning for key infrastructure, and training for council staff to operate essential assets.
“We’ve already seen the benefits the SEQ Community Stimulus Program is delivering for local economies, tradies and families right across this region,” said Assistant Minister for Local Government, Ali King.
“We will work with local councils to ensure the best local projects are funded through this new round to support more jobs and liveable communities.”
The 12 councils eligible to receive funding through the SEQCSP are Brisbane City Council, Gold Coast City Council, Ipswich City Council, Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Logan City Council, Moreton Bay Regional Council, Noosa Shire Council, Redland City Council, Scenic Rim Regional Council, Somerset Regional Council, Sunshine Coast Regional Council and Toowoomba Regional Council.
All councils can allocate up to 20% of their SEQCSP allocation towards planning projects and up to five per cent towards capability development projects.
Applications for proposed projects will open later this month. Learn more about the SEQCSP and new funding guidelines.
