Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Anthony Lynham said the government’s $2.25 million contribution towards Mackay’s sewerage system and $3.6 million for a new landfill resource at Moranbah.

The $4.5 million Mackay project, co-funded by Mackay Regional Council, will support 13 jobs and deliver critical upgrades to 40 different sites across the Mackay region.

At Moranbah, replacing the existing Resource Recovery Centre will create 21 jobs and help extend the existing landfill’s lifespan.

Lynham said these projects were just some of 42 critical infrastructure projects receiving more than $70 million from the Queensland government’s $200 million Building our Regions program.

“This investment in critical regional infrastructure demonstrates our government’s commitment to sustainable regional Queensland communities,” he said.

“The government’s $70 million contribution is attracting a further $159 million investment from council and other organisations.

“Regional communities are the backbone of our economy, and Building our Regions projects will deliver almost 700 jobs in this first round, as well as the flow-on economic development.”

The Mackay works will involve upgrades to switchboards, vent poles, accesses and wet well rehabilitations, and the installation of sensor devices for smart sewer monitoring.

The upgrades to the network will allow for real-time data to be made available to council so they can be more proactive in responding to system failures.

At Moranbah, Isaac RegionalCouncil has matched the state government’s $3.58 million to develop a new landfill area, stormwater and leachate pond, and build a new refuse transfer station.

“The new landfill will enable bulk handling of waste and improve hygiene and safety for the community, users of the landfill, and employees,” Lynham said.

“This project is critical in ensuring Moranbah can meet demand for waste infrastructure to serve the regional community, mining sector and supporting industries.”

“The QAO audit report of the LNP’s program found that the former Deputy Premier did not follow Departmental advice in approving funding, didn’t document his reasons for doing so and consistently favoured funding projects in LNP electorates.

“Treasurer Curtis Pitt has referred the report to the Crime and Corruption Commission for consideration and appropriate action.”