Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has delivered more than half a billion dollars worth of projects and services for the Burdekin electorate via the Crisafulli government’s first budget.

Focussed on the key issues directly affecting local communities, Mr Last said essential services and infrastructure saw increased funding and election commitments were ‘fully honoured’.

“Across the Burdekin electorate, almost $600M in projects and services have been supported in this budget including every single election commitment,” Mr Last said.  “This year’s budget delivers on the priorities that Queenslanders supported at the last election while laying the foundation for long term budget repair.”

“Projects such as the Resources Centre of Excellence and the upgrades at the Clermont Aquatic Centre are now backed with full funding.  Early education has also received a boost with facility upgrades at Clermont State School and the expansion of the Moranbah Early Learning Centre to enable 25 additional childcare places.”

“The budget also locks in funding for previously announced projects including the construction of additional affordable housing for non-mining workers in Moranbah, upgrades to the junior playground area at the Clermont State School and lighting upgrades at the Moranbah Soccer Fields.”

“In addition to boosting frontline health worker numbers, important health projects like mental health support and programs for both adults and young people have been funded and those services will deliver a huge benefit across the state, including in the Isaac area.  Addressing isolation for seniors, support to overcome drug and alcohol addiction and a boost to preventing domestic, family and sexual violence are also key parts of the budget that will strengthen our community.”

Mr Last said the budget highlighted the importance of the resources sector and would make inroads for both current workers and those looking to join the industry.

“Not only have we appointed the Mining and Resources Coroner, but we have also locked in long term funding that ensures improving worker safety on mine and quarry sites remains a priority,” he said.  “In conjunction with the reviews that are underway, that means an effective, permanent safety regime with the necessary powers to make a difference.”

“Increasing exploration in the sector provides proof that this government recognises the important of a long, bright future for the resources industry.  Ensuring that future also means training the next generation of workers and guaranteeing the funding for the Resources Centre of Excellence ensures those workers get the training they need and deserve.”

“Funding for road upgrades across the Isaac are also included in the budget as well as work to identify and deliver the projects that will provide the biggest improvements in safety for all road users.”

“While the budget is responsible and is built on respecting taxpayers’ money, it delivers on our commitments and allows us to deliver the services and infrastructure families access every day.  This is a budget that invests in a stronger, more productive economy that will benefit all Queenslanders.”