Regional QLD water projects set for $70M boost

Details have been revealed for the $70 million package for regional water infrastructure projects, which will form part of the Queensland Government’s Building Our Regions program.

the Building our Regions program supports local government infrastructure projects in regional communities that create flow-on economic development opportunities and jobs.

The program has a strengthened focus on delivering economic outcomes for regional communities, targeting funding toward job-creating infrastructure that will improve economic conditions.

Funding through five rounds has been allocated towards 264 construction projects and seven planning projects across 67 local government areas in regional Queensland.

Regional local governments will soon be able to apply for a share of the $70 million Building Our Regions Round 6 fund for priority water and sewage infrastructure and planning projects.

Queensland Minister for Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Glenn Butcher said the funding will support councils to complete critical works.

“For some of our smaller councils, raising the funds for projects such as sewage infrastructure or water pipeline repairs can be challenging,” Butcher said. “Councils can apply for up to $2 million in funding to support a range of eligible construction and works projects over three years.”

“Small and very small councils will also be able to apply for funding of up to $300,000 for planning of projects that will help determine the right solution to address a water or sewerage service issue.”

Local Government Association of Queensland President and Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson welcomed the focus on water and wastewater infrastructure of the latest round of the program.

“We have been working closely with the Queensland Government on behalf of our member councils, to find ways to address the infrastructure cliff many rural towns are facing due to ageing water and wastewater infrastructure,” Jamieson said.

“This funding represents an important first step in what will be needed to deliver critical water and sewerage upgrades for these communities.”