Those seeking agriculture-based apprenticeships in Queensland may be interested to hear the government has supported plans to increase infrastructure projects to help encourage growth in the region’s farming industry.
“There is a prospect of growing regional centres and I think it’s something we should embrace on one condition – the infrastructure has got to be delivered ahead of the game,” Minister David Crisafulli said according to a January 28 article from Queensland Country Life.
Major infrastructure developments are on the cards for regional communities across Queensland to support Australia’s growing agriculture industry.
Rural roads across the state are expecting significant investment, after the recent National Road Asset Reporting Pilot found more than a quarter (26 per cent) of roads in rural Australia are forecast to become impassable after just 20mm of rain.
Additionally, only 24.3 per cent of the 13,000km of roads assessed were sealed, with 20 per cent of those roads estimated to be beyond their ‘useful life’.
However, Mr Crisafulli has expressed the need to carry out these and other infrastructure plans in a ‘planned, sensible manner’ to optimise growth.
He also highlighted the goal of encouraging residents to want to move into the area and become a part of the community.
“If that occurs, I think people will embrace the opportunity for these regions to grow and be strong for many years to come,” Mr Crisafulli said.
Increased infrastructure investment is also expected to benefit urban regions across Queensland as it encourages the population to occupy rural areas, reducing demand on city resources.
“This is a benefit for all Queenslanders because if you continue to pile everyone into the same location, not only will it create great pressures for the people who live in Brisbane, it’s also a great cost for the taxpayer,” said Mr Crisafulli.
Additionally, acting Treasurer John McVeigh has brought attention to Queensland’s strong results in the latest CommSec State of the States report.
Queensland experienced the fastest economic growth rate in Australia, according to the report.
“The growth rate is up by 4.2 per cent from this time last year and we’re seeing exciting figures from tourism, energy and construction which has been performing very well over the past six months,” Mr McVeigh said.
“I’m pleased to say that agriculture is showing significant potential as well,” he said.
By Leanne de Toerkenczy, Public Relations Coordinator
