Mining, agriculture buffered ‘worst of COVID-19 downturn’
Treasurer Cameron Dick has revealed the key projects for Mackay Whitsunday in the government’s no frills budget.
Mackay
Don't miss out on the headlines from Mackay. Followed categories will be added to My News.
TREASURER Cameron Dick has acknowledged the crucial role mining, minerals and agriculture sectors played in protecting the state's economy from "some of the worst effects of the COVID-19 downturn".
During his budget speech to parliament, Mr Dick said the government was acutely aware of how the growth of Queensland's regions would drive economic prosperity.
The Treasurer named two local projects specifically in his speech - the Olive Downs metallurgical coal mine south of Moranbah and the government's proposed stake in the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal - which he said showed its commitment to "backing regional projects" to drive jobs growth.
"Across regional Queensland, the surge in renewable energy production and our focus on traditional and advanced manufacturing industries will mean the creation of rewarding, secure jobs," Mr Dick said.
"But we will need a workforce with the skills to take on those jobs."
More stories:
Local politicians take on the big issues in new roles
The promises Palaszczuk has to deliver for Mackay
Moments of Mackay, Whitsunday election
He said the State Government would inject a further $200 million in the skills of the future with a suite of initiatives, including $32.4 million over two years for the TAFE Priority Skills Fund, $25 million over two years for Pre-Apprenticeship support; $8 million over four years for a Digital Professional Workforce Plan and $8 million over two years for the Social Enterprise Jobs Fund.
Mr Dick reinforced the budget would deliver "all of our election commitments".
"This is a budget that contains no surprises for Queenslanders," he said.
"It is a budget that contains no new or increased taxes, ensuring that Queensland continues to remain a low-tax state.
"Queenslanders will pay an average of $628 less in tax this financial year than other Australians.
"It is a budget focused on economic recovery and sustainable fiscal repair. It is unashamedly pro-business and pro-growth.
"Most importantly, the budget focuses on delivering jobs for Queenslanders."
Share your thoughts on this issue through a letter to the editor:
Where to find the best fish and chips in Queensland
Two Whitsundays icons come out on top in statewide competition to find the best of the best in Queensland — including the best “big thing”.
Mum worried about kids’ sport costs as program expires
A petition to save sport vouchers for Qld kids has garnered thousands of signatures as the opposition leader warns local sporting clubs will pay the cost.
Police seize cash, cocaine, meth in major Qld drug blitz
Police say they have busted open a Queensland-wide drug syndicate operating between Mount Isa and Brisbane, resulting in more than 270 charges.
‘I f***ed up’: Drunk Landcruiser driver who hit teen boy jailed
A Central Queensland dad was driving home from a day of fishing and drinking beers when he hit a teenage boy who was left fighting for his life and fearing he was going to ‘bleed out’.
Mum’s heartbreaking vow after murder charges laid
Phoebe Bishop’s mother has made an emotional promise to her family after the teen’s housemates were charged with murder.
How now-pregnant drug mule ended up with 2kg bikie meth on Bruce Hwy
From a ‘bomb’ attack to a bikie drug run, the shocking story of a pregnant woman caught with $250k of meth on the Bruce Hway has unfolded in a Qld court.