Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley and Somerset Regional Councils are sharing in $100 million for shovel-ready community infrastructure projects that could create hundreds of jobs.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council is receiving $4.03 million, Somerset Regional Council $3.89 million and Toowoomba Regional Council $5.11 million.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government Steven Miles said the councils were sharing in $100 million over the next three years through the Palaszczuk Government's South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program (SEQCSP).
"This is part of Queensland's plan for economic recovery, to create jobs across SEQ by assisting councils to fast-track investment in new infrastructure," Mr Miles said.
"We made a commitment during the election to provide an additional $200 million over six years to the 12 councils in the South East.
"We're delivering on our promise with the rollout of the first $100 million today, which will help councils deliver projects that will stimulate employment, boost local economies and improve communities."
"This is great news for the region's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"In 2020, through the COVID Works for Queensland program and the Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package, the South East councils received $100 million to help deliver 151 projects, which the councils estimate will support or create more than 2,500 jobs.
"This funding has gone towards great community infrastructure like a learn to ride course at the new Fairways Park in Lockyer Valley equipped with imitation road signage, pump tracks, dog park, nature play elements, shelters, barbecues and more.
"Water security upgrades have also been funded including upgrades to the Jondaryan Reservoir, new Trunk Water Mains to meet growth in Meringandan and a new pipeline connection to provide a high reliability treated water supply into the township of Valeview from Toowoomba.
"In Somerset Regional Council we've funded sporting facility upgrades including a recycled water pipeline at Fernvale Sports Park to help keep the fields maintained during drought and LED field lighting for Lowood Recreation Complex, Kilcoy Hopetoun Field and Esk Recreation Grounds."
Through the SEQCSP, $74 million is allocated to the councils and the remaining $26 million will be distributed on a competitive application basis.
From the $74 million worth of allocation funding:
- Lockyer Valley Regional Council - $4.03 million
- Somerset Regional Council - $3.89 million
- Toowoomba Regional Council - $5.11 million
