Cynthia Lui MP
Member for Cook
Media Release
Communities across Far North Queensland region will see more jobs, increased liveability and stronger local economies with the approval of almost $12.5 million towards priority local infrastructure projects.
Works will include a new community hub in Mareeba, water security projects in Lockhart River and Douglas Shire, and water quality improvements in the Tablelands, 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 Far North Queensland 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.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the funding for these projects will provide a lift for the entire region.
“Upgrading or building new infrastructure has an immediate positive impact on the liveability of a town or city,” Ms Lui said.
“This can have fantastic spinoffs such as creating jobs, retaining and growing a population base and generating business confidence to invest locally.
“I’m thrilled funding has been approved for priority water and road projects, renewable energy initiatives as well as other infrastructure projects to benefit the region.”
The Far North Queensland region will benefit from:
- Aurukun Shire Council receiving $96,000 for pathways and amenities upgrades at community facilities
- Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council receiving more than $946,000 to upgrade the Canteen & Cafe
- Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council receiving more than $267,000 to commission a new bore as well as projects to showcase the local cultural heritage and history
- Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council receiving more than $239,000 to remove trees posing a threat to community infrastructure
- Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council receiving more than $211,000 to improve lighting in public streets and to provide back-up generators to the radio station and community hall
- Torres Shire Council receiving $204,000 for a cultural heritage project as well as installing solar street lights and security cameras
- Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council receiving almost $283,000 to seal Banana Farm Road
- Douglas Shire Council receiving $1.26 million to refurbish the Craiglie Reservoir
- Mareeba Shire Council receiving $1.08 million for the Mareeba Community Hub
- Torres Strait Island Regional Council receiving more than $435,000 for the installation of smart meters to monitor water usage
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.
For more information: http://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/lggsp
ENDS