The Sunshine Coast is set for a $7.1 million boost from a community stimulus program.
Councils across South East Queensland are sharing in $100 million for shovel-ready infrastructure projects that could create up to 2,500 jobs
Noosa will receive a $4.08 million injection.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government Steven Miles said the Palaszczuk Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program (SEQCSP) was designed to make an immediate impact on communities.
“This is part of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery, to create jobs across SEQ by assisting councils to fast-track investment in new infrastructure,” Mr Miles said.
“In 2020, through the COVID Works for Queensland program and the Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package, the South East councils received $100 million to help deliver 151 projects, which the councils estimate will support or create more than 2,500 jobs.
“This has seen great community infrastructure funded including construction of a signalised pedestrian crossing on Vulture Street East near Withington Street, East Brisbane and upgraded walking tracks and new viewing spaces at Eildon Hill Reservoir in Windsor.
“Funding has also gone toward the Logan Village to Yarrabilba Rail Trail. The 2.5m wide Rail Trail will connect the newly completed district park, Buxton Park in Yarrabilba with the Logan Village Green to the north.
“We made a commitment during the election to increate this support and provide an additional $200 million over six years to the 12 councils in the South East.
“We’re delivering on our promise with the rollout of the first $100 million today, which will help councils deliver projects that will stimulate employment, boost local economies and improve communities.”
Like stories that inform, connect and celebrate the Sunshine Coast? So do we. Join an independent local news revolution by subscribing to our free daily news feed: Go to SUBSCRIBE at top of this article to register.
Mr Miles said councils were now able to submit their project proposals to the government.
“$74 million is split between the 12 SEQ councils with the remaining $26 million distributed on a competitive application basis,” Mr Miles said.
“This program builds on funding the SEQ councils received in 2020 through the $200 million COVID Works for Queensland program and the $50 million Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package.”
The initial $74 million worth of allocations:
Sunshine Coast Regional Council – $7.01 million, Noosa Shire Council – $4.08 million, Brisbane City Council – $7 million, Gold Coast City Council – $9.81 million, Ipswich City Council – $6.67 million, Lockyer Valley Regional Council – $4.03 million, Logan City Council – $8.02 million, Moreton Bay Regional Council – $9.3 million, Redland City Council – $5.09 million, Scenic Rim Regional Council – $3.99 million, Somerset Regional Council – $3.89 million, Toowoomba Regional Council – $5.11 million
