Australian Government funding makes two priority projects a reality in South Burnett

April 6, 2022

The Coalition Government is investing $1.05 million in two priority projects in the South Burnett, 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 include a $300,000 CBD upgrade in Blackbutt and $750,000 to construct an off-street carpark facility in Kingaroy.

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

“Strengthening access and facilities in Kingaroy and Blackbutt will provide a vital boost for local communities and deliver lasting upgrades that will benefit residents and visitors for years to come.”

Construction of an off-street carpark facility in George Street will see a minimum of 74 carparks created in the heart of Kingaroy. The carpark will provide a centralised parking area for the Kingaroy CBD and also service the Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail.

The Blackbutt CBD project includes facility improvements and footpath works within Les Muller Park, as well as a new playground.

“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/.