Townsville Enterprise state election scorecard shows failures of LNP, Labor while Katter’s forge ahead

On the eve of Queensland election, Townsville’s peak advocacy body has called out the failures of LNP and Labor to commit to a list of critical projects they say will shape the region’s future. But there’s one minor party out in front on their scorecard.

Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith. Picture: Shae Beplate.

On the eve of the Queensland election, Townsville’s peak advocacy body has called out the failures of LNP and Labor to commit to a list of critical projects they say will shape the region’s future.

Townsville Enterprise, alongside North Queensland councils, have been advocating for months for the major parties to commit funding towards their wishlist of 22 major projects.

With just one day before Queenslanders head to the polls, the only two projects both Labor and the LNP have fully committed to deliver on TEL’s wishlist is CopperString 2032 and a rent-to-buy housing scheme on Palm Island.

The clear winner in TEL’s ‘State Election Scorecard’ is Katter’s Australian Party, who have committed to 17 of the 22 projects, including a $65 million housing package that would enable 5650 new homes to be built and $50 million for a high-density build-to-rent housing model in Townsville’s CBD.

The Greens have committed to 13, including $360 million for a world-class arts and entertainment arena, part of the proposed waterfront development.

Townsville Enterprise's 2024 State Election Scorecard.

Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith said the list of projects were “not optional” but “critical” in securing a future for the region.

“Our region’s future hinges on strategic investments in housing, workforce attraction and liveability, infrastructure and policy reforms,” Ms Brumme-Smith said.

With the region needing an extra 20,000 construction and operational workers in the next five years, an unemployment rate of less than 3.6% and rental vacancies below 1%, commitments to key projects were needed now to ensure the future of our $30 billion project pipeline.

“North Queensland cannot afford to wait another election cycle for strategic investments. Our region is at a tipping point, and we need action now,” Ms Brumme-Smith said.

“Both major parties have supported CopperString, which is a significant step forward. However, we have seen insufficient progress in other essential areas like health, housing and tourism — projects that will drive economic prosperity for both North Queensland and the state.”

She urged the incoming government to step up and make “real, tangible commitments” to North Queensland.

“Our region has the capability and determination to lead in industries critical to the future of Queensland and the nation – but only the Katter’s Australian Party and the Australian Greens have committed investment to our region in this election, which is disappointing,” Ms Brumme-Smith said.

“We need strategic investment to ensure our continued growth and liveability, and that requires the new elected government to deliver these commitments.”

“The message is clear: let’s demand not just promises, but real action and results for North Queensland – commitments the region has long deserved.”

Katter’s Australian Party leader Robbie Katter in Townsville. Picture: Evan Morgan

KAP leader and Traeger MP Robbie Katter said housing pressures were being felt across the state, so supporting TEL’s housing priorities was a no-brainer.

“For only $65 million, more than 5600 new homes could be unlocked in and around Townsville, as well as $50 million towards a Built-to-Rent investment for critical workers,” Mr Katter said.

“Townsville’s future prospects are being limited by a lack of available housing – the same is true in our western areas, in towns like Charters Towers and Hughenden.

“Despite the housing crisis seeming impossible to solve, innovating and forward-looking solutions are out there – KAP are here to support them.”

Whomever wins government on Saturday, Ms Brumme-Smith said it was important that all levels of community and government worked together to deliver the region’s projects.

“We stand united with our community, ready to positively collaborate with the incoming government to ensure that Townsville and North Queensland receive their fair share, recognising our role as a major contributor to both the state and national economy, with a vibrant community of 250,000 Queenslanders,” she said.

“By working together, we can deliver these vital projects that will shape the future of North Queensland and ensure the region continues to thrive.”

Originally published as Townsville Enterprise state election scorecard shows failures of LNP, Labor while Katter’s forge ahead