Gold Coast road upgrades fast-tracked after federal government announces new funding for council

Key road upgrades will be fast-tracked to relieve pressure on the Gold Coast’s congested traffic network under a surprise plan being unveiled on Tuesday.

The Federal Government will give the Gold Coast City Council more than $9.3m to fast-track road upgrades as Labor fires the first salvo in the Fadden by-election.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will announce the funding boost on the Gold Coast on Tuesday as his government mounts the case for an against-the-odds victory in the safe LNP seat.

Mr Albanese will officially unveil it, as be part of the government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, alongside candidate Letitia Del Fabbro, whose campaign he will launch.

Gold Coast road upgrades will be fast-tracked under the funding agreement. Photo: David Clark

Mr Albanese said the funding, which will become available in July, will allow council to name projects they want funded.

“As Prime Minister, and indeed as a former Infrastructure and Local Government Minister, I’m passionate about delivering good projects where people need them in conjunction with all levels of government,” he said.

“The Gold Coast is such an important and developing area, and I’m thrilled to lead a government that works with the council to get the best results for Australia’s sixth largest city.”

Anthony Albanese. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the funding would allow the council to bring forward projects it had put off.

“We have listened to councils and are standing side-by-side with local governments to support them in their vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for their communities,” she said.

“In delivering on our election pledges, we are building important local infrastructure that will bring real benefits to communities on the Gold Coast.

“Whether it be better roads to help people get home safer or upgraded and more accessible places for them to relax, we want deliver projects that have a lasting impact.”

Ms Del Fabbro is one of 13 candidates, including the LNP’s Cameron Caldwell, contesting the seat in a July 15 by-election. It was triggered by the resignation of former minister Stuart Robert.