Barcaldine and Blackall-Tambo are to receive $4.8 million as part of the $495 million royalties project, with this round of funding expected to boost road and air travel in the region.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Scott Emerson announced the latest grant this week (May 1) at the Local Government Association of Queensland Conference in Tambo.
“The Royalties for Regions program delivers on the LNP government’s promise to improve infrastructure and boost economic growth, particularly in Queensland’s regions,” Mr Emerson said.
Funds to support this royalty program have been collected by the resources sector and are being injected back into “critical community infrastructure” across regional towns in Queensland. The ongoing assistance from the government has already seen an impressive number of projects receive vital funding.
This program has also helped regional towns create essential employment and apprenticeship opportunities, particularly in civil infrastructure roles. Additionally, the funding is expected to improve efficiency, safety and productivity within Queensland’s most profitable industries – mining and agriculture.
These sectors are also the state’s largest employers, which means a vast majority of employees and businesses in Queensland could benefit from the royalties funding.
“Investing in regional transport infrastructure is an investment in the future of economic growth in our regions,” Mr Emerson explained.
To date, approximately 40 councils across the state have received more than $250 million in funding through the royalty program. This has supported the construction of much needed roads, community infrastructure and flood mitigation projects.
In this particular round of funding, the Barcaldine Regional Council will receive $4.32 million to help upgrade the Eastmere Road while the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council is being awarded close to $500,000 to improve facilities at the Blackall Airport.
“Regional centres such as Barcaldine and Blackall are fast becoming hubs for significant resource projects, and we are pleased to be able to partner with local councils to upgrade infrastructure for the benefit of local residents, tourists and business people,” Mr Emerson expressed.
Barcaldine Regional Shire Mayor Rob Chandler welcomed the announcement of a grant for his region.
“This funding will significantly improve safety and vehicle efficiency for local residents and other motorists, including heavy vehicles associated with mining activities in the region,” Mr Chandler said.
With these investments boosting efficiency and productivity across Queensland, affected businesses could soon achieve growth within their industry. This has the potential to lead to further job creation, which is encouraging for those seeking apprenticeships and traineeships in Queensland.
By Leanne de Toerkenczy, Public Relations Coordinator
