SUNSHINE COAST COUNCILS TO TAKE PART IN $300 MILLION FOR CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

• Miles Government launches largest-ever round of Works for Queensland
• New $300 million round will support hundreds of projects in regional areas
• Spans housing, critical infrastructure and regional economic development

Regional councils are set to share in $300 million of new funding to deliver essential local infrastructure and services under a record round of Works for Queensland.

The 2024-27 round of Works for Queensland has increased the total funding pool to $300 million from the previous $200 million and will benefit the 65 councils outside the south-east corner of the state.

Applications will open next week for councils to propose local projects, such as housing supply and supporting infrastructure, community safety projects, water infrastructure, roads and drainage, disaster resilience and more.

The latest round of the now $1.1 billion program shows the Miles Government’s focus on pulling every lever to deliver critical infrastructure across every region of the state.

Under new guidelines released today, councils can also put part of their allocated funding towards planning for key infrastructure as well as staff training to operate essential assets.

Quotes attributable to Member for Nicklin, Rob Skelton MP:
“Our Miles Labor Government continues to back regional councils and invest in regional communities.
“That’s why this is the largest round of our Works for Queensland program to be rolled out.

“I’m urging councils in our community to put their best projects forward that deliver critical infrastructure that Queenslanders need.

“Just look at the clubhouse upgrade for the Hinterland Blues AFL club and Palmwoods Cricket Club which delivered female-friendly change rooms, umpire facilities, a new canteen, meeting room, storage area, first-aid room and an improved spectator embankment through the Works for Queensland program”

“These partnerships with councils are critical to delivering the infrastructure and housing that Queenslanders need, alongside our Homes for Queenslanders plan.”

Further information:
• Works for Queensland supports regional councils to deliver infrastructure that creates jobs, supports economic development and boosts liveability in their communities.
• Councils can also put up to 20 per cent of their funding allocation towards planning projects and up to five per cent towards capability development projects.
• Applications will open 13 May, with the successful projects to be announced later this year.
• For more information, including funding guidelines, visit www.localgovernment.qld.gov.au/works-for-queensland