The Queensland Government has unveiled its 2024-25 Budget, including a $266.3 million investment in major renewable energy projects and a $107.3 billion capital program for infrastructure statewide.
$92 million will be invested for CleanCo to progress renewables projects across Central Queensland, including the development of up to 2.3GW of new wind and solar projects.
$174.3 million will go towards jointly acquiring the 228MW Boulder Creek Wind Farm near Rockhampton to support the state’s renewable energy targets.
$33.9 million has been allocated to help progress the Northern Land Expansion Project at Gladstone Port, and to help release additional land at the port to assist the development of renewable energy and other industries.
A $39.5 million investment in 2024-25 will go towards upgrading the Rockhampton–Yeppoon Road, a regional road critical to connecting the Capricorn Coast to Rockhampton and the rest of the region, supporting defence, forestry and tourism as part of the state’s freight network.
Other major infrastructure projects receiving funding are designed to support reliable water supply in the region.
$311.1 million will be invested in 2024-25 to construct the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline, expected to deliver water from the Lower Fitzroy River to Gladstone Area Water Board’s existing network.
$26.4 million will be delivered in 2024-25 to construct the Mount Morgan Pipeline, connecting Gracemere to Mount Morgan in a move designed to secure reliable water for more than 3,000 people.
Queensland Premier, Steven Miles, said, “I am doing what matters for Queenslanders and delivering the largest investment into Queensland Health services, infrastructure and frontline workers in the state’s history.
“Central Queensland has the potential to be a renewable energy superpower, so I am supporting that in my first budget as Premier.
“Unlocking this opportunity not only supports the State’s renewable energy targets, but also brings around 4,000 jobs to the region.
“I will always put Queenslanders first and do what matters most to them,” Mr Miles said.
Queensland Deputy Premier and Treasurer, Cameron Dick, said, “We are backing Queenslanders and Queensland families with this Budget.
“And not only are we delivering action on cost of living, but we are also investing into the right infrastructure and services to support growth in the region.
“With major investment into renewable energy and the opportunity it brings we are powering the industries and jobs of the future and unlocking about 4,000 jobs for Central Queensland.
“Healthcare and education are at this budgets core and with $963 million to be invested into both, we’ll hire more doctors, nurses for the region, and improve school facilities to support learning outcomes for young Queenslanders.
“The Queensland Government listens to Queenslanders and acts on the issues that matter most to them which is exactly what this Budget delivers.
“We are bolstering the Australian Government electricity bill relief by $1,000, meaning that Queensland households will receive a $1,300 credit on their electricity bills.
“This budget was made with Queenslanders in mind, and we will do what matters most for them,” Mr Dick said.
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