More funding has been announced for councils. Image: ABCDstock/stock.adobe.com
The Queensland Government’s new funding for South East Queensland councils has been welcomed by an aggregates advocacy body.
The SEQ councils will be able to receive funding from a $100 million pool to fund critical infrastructure, future housing, disaster resilience and community projects.
Under the new round, some councils will be able to use part of their allocated funding to plan for key infrastructure and train council staff to operate essential assets.
Under the arrangement, 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 are eligible for funding according to the state government.
“We’re backing SEQ councils to deliver essential infrastructure and services,” Local Government Minister Meaghan Scanlon said.
“Queensland needs more houses, and I am pulling every lever to deliver them.
“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.”
Cement Concrete & Aggregate Australia welcomed the announcement of the extra funding.
“CCAA welcomes the Qld Govt unlocking $100m to SEQ councils for critical infrastructure,” they posted.
“Highlighting the importance of planning & approval reforms to support supply of affordable critical construction materials needed to deliver the infrastructure.”
According to the state government, all councils can allocate up to 20 per cent of their SEQCSP allocation towards planning projects and up to five per cent towards capability development projects.
“We’ve already seen the benefits the SEQ Community Stimulus Program is delivering for local economies, tradies and families right across this region,” Assistant Local Government Minister Ali King said.
“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.”
Applications for proposed projects will open later this month. Learn more about the SEQCSP and new funding guidelines.
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