Western Downs and Maranoa Regional Councils secure $4.2 million in Works for Queensland funding

More than $4 million has been allocated to regional councils to improve liveability and create jobs. Here’s where the funding is going.

Beautifying streetscapes are among the projects that Works for Queensland funding has been used for. Picture: Peter Ristevski

Councils in the Western Downs region are sharing in $4.2 million from the latest round of the Palaszczuk Government’s hugely successful Works for Queensland program.

Works for Queensland helps local governments deliver or maintain important community infrastructure projects that support local jobs.

In announcing the allocations, Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government Steven Miles encouraged councils to submit their project ideas for funding.

Western Downs Regional Council received $2.78 million while Maranoa Regional Council received $1.42 million.

“We have seen what an enormously positive impact the Works for Queensland program has had on communities throughout our regions and this further funding will help councils deliver roads and pathways, parks and playgrounds, all while creating local jobs,” Mr Miles said.

“Western Downs councils have received a combined allocated funding of over $16 million through four rounds of Works for Queensland, delivering 48 projects.

“Projects previously funded in the region include building the Northern Bore in Roma, upgrading the Myall 107 building in Dalby, improving the Tara Town Centre streetscape, upgrading the town entrances to Tara, Wandoan and Miles, upgrading the footpaths in Dalby, Chinchilla, Miles, Condamine, Bell and Jandowae, improving flood resilience across Maranoa Council area, replacing the Dalby Swimming Pool grandstand, constructing Ashwalls in Injune and Yuleba.”

Dr Miles said almost 510 jobs had been created across the Western Downs and Maranoa through Works for Queensland.

“The $200 million fourth round of Works for Queensland means that councils outside the South East corner have now been allocated $800 million dollars from the program, helping to create local employment opportunities and improve liveability in regional Queensland,” he said.

“I would encourage the councils to put forward projects for consideration that can begin as soon as possible, so the benefits can flow on to their communities faster.

“There is no question this funding will give local economies a shot in the arm and go a long way to help Queensland communities unite and recover.”

Local Government Association of Queensland President and Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said Works for Queensland stood as a powerful example of what can be achieved when both levels of government work together to create jobs and improve local communities.

“This program’s success comes from its targeted focus on funding projects that can be rolled out quickly to provide opportunities and improved facilities for local communities,” Mayor Jamieson said.

Eligible projects range from roadworks to town beautification, parks and playground upgrades, renewable energy installations, tourism, water and safety.

Project submissions close April 9.

For more information visit here.