Wide Bay communities are set to receive $45.79 million towards infrastructure projects that will create 850 local jobs thanks to the Palaszczuk Government's signature Works for Queensland program.
Across the Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Gympie, South Burnett, North Burnett and Banana local government areas, $45.79 million has been allocated to 55 projects, supporting 850 jobs,
New pump tracks in Hervey Bay and Maryborough, additional car parking at Anzac Park in Maryborough, upgrading the Mundubbera Waste Facility, CBD renewals in Wondai and Kumbia and new play equipment at the One Mile Playground in Gympie are just some of the projects set to boost local employment under the latest round of the $1 billion Works for Queensland program.
Assistant Minister for Local Government Nikki Boyd said the projects will have a positive impact across regional Queensland.
"The Works for Queensland program has been very successful at helping regional councils deliver infrastructure that will create jobs and improve liveability in communities outside the south east corner," Ms Boyd said.
"The latest $200 million fourth round of the program will have a positive impact across regional Queensland.
"The 65 regional councils are best placed to understand the specific needs of their communities, and we have listened to our councils.
"This round of Works for Queensland will help deliver 333 projects, which the councils estimate will create or support more than 3,600 jobs where they are needed most.
"This is part of Queensland's plan for economic recovery."
Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders said $16.46 million in projects in Fraser Coast Regional Council would be funded under the newest round of Works for Queensland.
"The Works for Queensland program provides funding to get projects off the ground that will create jobs and make a big difference to regional communities," Mr Saunders said.
"The next round of Works for Queensland will support 359 local jobs," Mr Saunders said.
"This is great news for Maryborough and for our region's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"So far $55.9 million has been invested, creating 445 jobs through the Works for Queensland projects across the region."
Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor George Seymour said the Works for Queensland program was a fantastic initiative which allowed the council to deliver many job-creating projects that has enhanced liveability in the communities
"I'm looking forward to continuing to provide more benefits and jobs for the Fraser Coast region through these new projects," Mayor Seymour said.
Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said councils across Bundaberg and Burnett region will receive a combined allocation of $22.15 million which the councils estimate will create or support more than 370 local jobs.
"This injection of funding and jobs will support our region's economy and create jobs," Mr Smith said.
"A range of projects will be delivered across the Wide Bay including a new Olympic-size 50m swimming pool in Bundaberg."
Gympie Regional Council is receiving $ 7.18 million that will support an estimated 119 jobs.
Gympie Regional Council Mayor Glen Hartwig said Works for Queensland funding had assisted the Gympie region with many projects
"As our region continues to grow, it's crucial our infrastructure and public works are delivered on time and to a budget. These funds from the State play a vital role in this," Mayor Hartwig said.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Queensland Government."
The Works for Queensland program supports regional councils to undertake job-creating maintenance and minor infrastructure projects such as parks and playgrounds, community and sports facilities, swimming pools and water play areas, renewable energy initiatives, footpaths, roads and water infrastructure.
The eligible councils have been allocated $800 million through the first four rounds of the program, with a further $200 million committed for 2024-27.
