Australian Government funding makes two Birdsville priority projects a reality

April 6, 2022

The Coalition Government is investing $906,786 in two priority projects in the Diamantina Shire, supporting local jobs, businesses and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Made possible under the third phase of the Australian Government’s $3 billion Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, projects to be delivered in Birdsville include $130,000 for utility connections at Birdsville Oval and $776,786 for sealing of approximately 7kms of Big Red Road.

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the funding reflects Diamantina Shire Council’s top priorities and will ensure the needs of the local community are met.

“Strengthening access and facilities in Birdsville will grow visitation to major events, which provides a vital boost for local communities and delivers lasting upgrades that will benefit residents and visitors for years to come.”

The remaining section of the Big Red Road will be paved and sealed to eliminate the rough section of dry weather only road, whilst construction of water and sewerage connectivity from mains to the Birdsville sports oval will allow temporary amenities to be connected for events held on the oval. The projects will support 11 Council jobs and 18 contractor jobs.

“With the challenges presented by COVID-19, bushfires, floods and other events, the past couple of years have been tough for communities, businesses and local councils,” Mr Littleproud said.

“That’s why we have moved quickly to approve funding for these projects, paving the way for shovels to hit the dirt to make them a reality.”

Mr Littleproud said newly increased funding of $500 million for the extension to Phase 3 will flow through the LRCI Program to local councils across Australia, building on the $1.7 billion already approved to deliver more than 7,400 projects nationwide under the first three phases of the program.

“The $500 million Phase 3 Extension will deliver more jobs, more economic stimulus, and more of the local priority projects that communities need and deserve.”

For more information on the $3 billion LRCI Program, including the allocations for the $500 million Phase 3 Extension, visit https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/local-roads-and-community-infrastructure/.