The long-term State Infrastructure Plan committed to significant reforms to the way Queensland plans, prioritises and invests in infrastructure, and it follows the establishment of Building Queensland as an independent infrastructure advisor to government and Market Led Proposals to encourage new private sector investment, she said.

The establishment of a new State Infrastructure Fund, with an initial investment of $500 million, including $180 million for a “Significant Regional Infrastructure Projects Program” which will deliver regionally significant infrastructure projects identified by communities for communities, the Premier said.

The State Infrastructure Plan also outlined a clear, four-year pipeline of projects to provide the private sector with the confidence to invest in people and resources by knowing what projects will be in market when.

Infrastructure projects over the next four years for the Mackay region include the Bruce Highway Mackay Ring Road Stage 1 (including planning); Peak Downs Highway Eton Range Realignment Project; and the Mackay Substation rebuild and Nebo Primary Plant replacement.

Additionally, the plan clearly outlines the government’s commitment to fast-track $75 million in shovel-ready projects to support 177 jobs for Mackay as part of its Accelerated Works Program.

Local Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert welcomed the announcement of the State Infrastructure Plan, and the significant economic growth and boost in jobs it would deliver for the region.