Federal Budget confirms Coalition Government commitment to Hinkler
Federal Member for Hinkler and Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Keith Pitt, says people in the electorate will benefit from billions of dollars in new infrastructure spending confirmed in the federal Budget.
This Budget delivers $3.3 billion to continue upgrades to Bruce Highway, including an $800 million contribution by the Coalition Government for the Cooroy to Curra section.
“Driving to and from our part of Queensland will be safer and faster thanks to this major investment by the Liberal National Government,” Mr Pitt said.
“A safer road will also bring economic benefits by encouraging more drive-tourists to Hinkler and as a major freight corridor it will open up new opportunities for businesses looking to export.
“In addition to the Cooroy to Curra funding, the Government is allocating $200 million for further safety works on the Bruce Highway,” Mr Pitt said.
“Itâs clear the campaign by Queensland LNP MPs has paid off with safety on the Bruce Highway a continuing priority of the Coalition Government.
“I was also very pleased to see that Queensland will benefit from the Coalitionâs new $3.5 billion Roads of Strategic Importance initiative to upgrade key freight corridors to connect our major agricultural and resource areas with cities and ports.”
Mr Pitt said the people of Bundaberg will also benefit from the much-needed rail upgrade to Beerburrum to Nambour line.
“This is another significant project that will help connect regional areas like Bundaberg and Hervey Bay with cities,” Mr Pitt said.
“It will cut travel time for tilt train passengers for those who live in regional Queensland and improve the overall experience for people visiting our region as tourists.
Local councils in Hinkler will also benefit from an early payment of the Financial Assistance Grants.
“For Bundaberg Regional Council and the Fraser Coast Regional Council that means theyâll have the opportunity to start work immediately on new projects.”