TREASURER David Janetzki has challenged Redlands leaders to step up their advocacy, warning the region is competing against highly organised rivals for billions of dollars in future state investment.
Speaking at Champion Redlands Coast’s State Budget Breakfast, Mr Janetzki singled out the business advocacy group as a vital force in securing the region’s share of Queensland’s record infrastructure spending.
“Champion Redlands Coast has an important role to play,” he said.
“When I visit places like Cairns or Townsville, their economic development organisations are incredibly focused. They know exactly what projects they want, and they advocate strongly for them.
“Redlands needs to continue doing exactly the same.
“Every region competes for investment.”
The Treasurer said Queensland’s $119.2 billion capital works program presented enormous opportunities, but only for regions prepared to make a compelling case.
He said transport alone accounted for almost $56 billion of the infrastructure pipeline, with governments needing to ensure every dollar delivered maximum value.
“Every dollar has to be used as effectively as possible,” he said.
“Whether it’s the Redland Whitewater Centre, road upgrades or other infrastructure projects, every investment must deliver maximum value.”
Mr Janetzki said Queensland had entered one of the biggest infrastructure periods in its history, making strong regional advocacy more important than ever.
He said Champion Redlands Coast should continue playing that role by keeping pressure on governments to deliver projects that would drive local jobs and economic growth.
The Treasurer also highlighted the scale of the state’s infrastructure commitment, saying Queensland’s forward capital program had grown to $119.2 billion.
“Not that long ago governments were talking about a $50 billion infrastructure program,” he said.
“Now we’re delivering more than twice that.”
Mr Janetzki said Queensland’s economic future depended on governments, business and communities working together.
“Governments can’t do it alone,” he said.
“Business, industry and communities all have an important role to play.
“Every business that invests, employs people and creates opportunity helps build Queensland’s future.”
His comments come as Redlands continues to lobby for major infrastructure projects, including the Redland Whitewater Centre and further transport upgrades, as the region positions itself to capitalise on the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
