The South East Queensland City Deal is a step closer to execution, with all three levels of government expected to sign the $ 1.8 billion project.
Key points:
- The deal delivers projects from Brisbane to Toowoomba, Ipswich and the Sunshine Coast
- The $ 1.8 billion investment is expected to generate more than 2,000 jobs
- $ 450 million is set aside for the new Brisbane Metro Station at Woolloongabba
Its designers say the deal will ease more than 30 projects, focusing on upgrading the region’s transport network, digital network and “livability” region.
Under the proposal, all three levels of government will contribute funding, along with money to also come from industry:
- the federal government should invest $ 667.77 million
- the state government should provide $ 618.78 million
- the Council of Mayors of South East Queensland is jointly tipping at $ 501.62 million
- an additional $ 75 million should come from industry.
Ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, $ 450 million will be set aside for the Gabba Brisbane Metro Station.
More than $ 100 million will go to the region and a circular economy by developing a region-wide approach to waste management.
Telecommunications networks will also receive a $ 70 million boost to upgrade their infrastructure and digital connectivity.
The South East Queensland Liveability Fund receives a $ 285 million dollar boost to assist in the delivery of council projects of social and economic priority.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said all three levels of government had come together to support the growing population of south-east Queensland.
“Southeast Queensland is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and with the population expected to continue to grow, it is crucial that we invest in the infrastructure it needs to fly for decades,” he said.
“From Brisbane to Toowoomba, Ipswich to Sunshine Coast, and everywhere in between, this deal delivers for southeastern Queenslanders.”
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said “the winners are Queenslanders”.
“The City Deal provides vital infrastructure to plan for our growing population,” Ms. Palaszczuk said.
Brisbane’s mayor, Adrian Schrinner, said the investment would have significant lasting benefits for residents.
“We are also a decade away from the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which present a unique opportunity to show our region to the world while being able to establish a heritage that can continue to be passed on to future generations,” he said.
“This City Deal sets us on a path to managing population growth, delivering the best ever players and, importantly, improving the lives of all our residents through continuous cooperation.”
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