$34 million more for jobs bonanza in Townsville and North Queensland through Works for Queensland

North Queensland councils have been delivered a major Budget windfall with an extra $34 million over two years allocated to the region through the Palaszczuk Government’s successful Works for Queensland Program.

On a visit to inspect works at Strand Water Park, Member for Mundingburra and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said that this new funding injection came after the first round was embraced by councils and communities across the state.

“Local families want exciting ways to enjoy our beautiful city. By working with Townsville City Council we have built a great community facility that has created local jobs in the process,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“I am incredibly excited to announce another $34 million for the Townsville region, bringing our total Works for Queensland investment here to more than $66 million.

“Through this funding, the Palaszczuk Government and regional councils are creating jobs, building great community infrastructure and councils want to see more invested. We have listened and we are delivering.”

“The Townsville region is already benefiting from this program with projects like stage two of the popular Strand Water Park and the Street Trees Project already underway and delivering jobs in our region,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the funding was a win for Townsville.

“Townsville receives the highest level of funding out of this program and I’m excited to see council’s proposals so we can get on with the job of delivering for our community together,” Mr Harper said.

Mayor of Townsville City Council Jenny Hill said that they were excited to deliver more projects through the program.

"Jobs are our top priority. The Works for Queensland program delivers that in spades and lets council deliver projects which are making a real difference to our community," Mayor Hill said.

Every council in the region will benefit with additional funds allocated to:

• Townsville City Council – $23.25 million over two years
• Burdekin Shire Council – $3 million over two years
• Hinchinbrook Shire Council – $2.3 million over two years
• Charters Towers Regional Council – $2.84 million over two years
• Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council - $2.72 million over two years

Councils in the Townsville region received first round Works for Queensland funding allocations for a total of 103 projects.

For more information visit: www.dilgp.qld.gov.au/works-for-queensland