A clear path for Bundaberg and Hervey Bay's economic development, resilience and liveability has been outlined today with the launch of the Hinkler Regional Deal Implementation Plan.
Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories Nola Marino was joined in Bargara by Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt, Mayor of the Bundaberg Region Jack Dempsey and Acting Mayor of Fraser Coast Darren Everard to sign the Implementation Plan.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the commitments would inject more than $260 million into the local economy and significantly strengthen the region.
"By facilitating new urban centres, helping new industries grow, making our roads safer and supporting local businesses, our commitments through the Hinkler Regional Deal provide the opportunity for the region to take a leap forward," Mr McCormack said.
Assistant Minister Marino highlighted the importance of the Implementation Plan to the delivery of the Hinkler Regional Deal.
"The Hinkler Regional Deal Implementation Plan sets out how we will deliver on core commitments such as the redevelopment of the Hervey Bay city centre, the Urraween Road to Boundary Road extension, a world-class Royal Flying Doctor Service flight, medical and simulation training centre and a new facility to support agricultural technology research and innovation," Assistant Minister Marino said.
"The Implementation Plan signed today will enable key projects to progress quickly, create jobs and allow the private sector to invest with confidence in the future of the region."
Mr Pitt emphasised the opportunities a Regional Deal will bring for the local community.
"This is an exciting time for the region and it is great that we have been able to chart a clear delivery plan for the infrastructure and new opportunities the region needs to support its future prosperity and protect the lifestyle we all cherish," Mr Pitt said.
"The delivery of commitments under the Hinkler Regional Deal are already progressing, providing new jobs and investment and the benefits to the region will only build as a result of the Implementation Plan signed today."
Acting Mayor Everard said today's signing also ensured the Australian and local governments continue to monitor progress and foster great outcomes for the region into the future.
"The Implementation Plan outlines a plan for ongoing dialogue between the Australian and local governments as well as annual reporting and a review process that will ensure that we get the outcomes the region needs now and into the future," Acting Mayor Everard said.
"We have such a dynamic and vibrant region, and the Regional Deal will help us to grow our economy, attract investment and provide more long term job opportunities."
Mayor Dempsey said the partnership between the Australian Government and local councils provided an opportunity to collaborate on a shared vision for the region.
"This is a great part of Australia with a diverse economy and great natural assets," he said.
"The Regional Deal Implementation Plan recognises that having councils and the Australian Government working together contributes towards the region's ongoing success."
The Hinkler Regional Deal is one of three pilot Regional Deals across Australia. The Deal is a collaboration between the Australian Government, Bundaberg Regional Council and Fraser Coast Regional Council.
The Australian Government's contribution to initiatives under the Hinkler Regional Deal includes:
- $85.7 million for road upgrades, including a $24 million contribution to improve the flood immunity of Torbanlea Pialba Road;
- $40 million towards various projects to redevelop the city centre of Hervey Bay;
- $15 million for a Royal Flying Doctor Service Flight, Medical and Simulation training facility in Bundaberg;
- $10 million to support the construction of a multi-use conveyor for the Port of Bundaberg;
- $9.2 million for the redevelopment of the Hervey Bay Airport;
- $7 million for establishing a new hospice in Hervey Bay;
- $5 million for an Agricultural Technology facility in Bargara;
- $750 000 for a pre-feasibility study at the Port of Bundaberg; and
- $250 000 to enhance regional tourism.
Full details of projects being delivered through the Hinkler Regional Deal can be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development's website at www.regional.gov.au/regional/deals/Hinkler.aspx.
