Communities across the Southern Border region will see more jobs, increased liveability and stronger local economies with the approval of almost $2.67 million towards priority local infrastructure projects.
Works will include revitalising Mungindi River Park, a collaborative asset management strategy project supporting a number of councils, upgrading water and sewerage infrastructure in Yelarbon and Talwood and assessing water and wastewater in Southern Downs, made possible through the Queensland Government's more than $58.5 million 2019-21 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP).
Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe congratulated the Southern Border councils on their successful projects.
"I applaud the councils and their initiative in recognising the need for these projects as well as securing the funding to help deliver them," Mr Hinchliffe said.
"This Government has committed to creating employment opportunities and these projects will do just that.
"Upgrading or building new infrastructure has an immediate positive impact on the liveability of a town or city.
"This can have fantastic spinoffs such as creating jobs, retaining and growing a population base and generating business confidence to invest locally."
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Tracy Dobie welcomed the funding
"This is a terrific funding program that not only helps us deliver priority infrastructure, it will deliver the Southern Downs a genuine economic boost," Mayor Dobie said.
"We are particularly happy the program once again has a two-year timeframe which will help Council budget efficiently and stretch the funding further."
Southern Border communities will benefit from:
- Balonne Shire Council receiving $984,400 to revitalise Mungindi River Park and undertake a collaborative asset management strategy project with the neighbouring Bulloo, Maranoa, Murweh, Paroo and Quilpie Councils
- Goondiwindi Regional Council receiving $738,000 to upgrade water and sewerage infrastructure in Yelarbon and Talwood
- Southern Downs Regional Council receiving $946,998 to audit and assess water and wastewater infrastructure and to investigate the possibility of new bores or rejuvenate existing bores
The $58.56 million 2019-21 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program is designed to provide funding assistance to support Local Governments to deliver priority infrastructure and essential services that meet the identified needs of their communities.
The Local Government and Grants and Subsidies Program projects must be completed by 30 June 2021.
