The Queensland Government is providing more than $15 million to four North Queensland Councils to support the delivery of local infrastructure upgrades.
Delivered as part of the 2024-28 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP), the funding will help councils deliver priority essential services and infrastructure projects that improve community safety and support local economic growth and employment.
Projects funded include:
- Burke Shire Council – Council staff housing project: $2 million
- Burdekin Shire Council – Duplicate Water Main construction for the Home Hill Water Supply: $720,000
- Burdekin Shire Council – Upgrade of Ayr Town Drain near Mackersie Street: $1.2 million
- Charters Towers Regional Council – Charters Towers Reservoir and Water Main Duplication: $8 million
- Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council – Upgrade of Manbarra Road and associated infrastructure: $3 million
Queensland Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy, said the funding supported councils to deliver essential community infrastructure.
“Upgrading key infrastructure for North Queenslanders is crucial to support growing communities and delivering resilient infrastructure,” Leahy said.
“This funding will also reduce maintenance pressures for councils, support long-term sustainability, and help deliver the essential services regional Queenslanders rely on every day.”
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, said through the LGGSP the Queensland Government would deliver real improvements that matter to communities across the Burdekin.
“The $720,000 duplicate water main for Home Hill will boost the reliability and resilience of the local water network, while the $1.2 million upgrade to the Ayr town drain will improve flood management and protect homes and businesses,” Last said.
“These are practical upgrades that strengthen essential services for the long term.”
Member for Townsville, Adam Baillie, said investing $3 million into upgrading Manbarra Road and the surrounding infrastructure was a meaningful step forward for Palm Island.
“We’re improving safety, strengthening access for residents and visitors, and supporting the essential infrastructure that underpins everyday life in the community. It’s a project that delivers real, practical benefits for Palm Island families.”
For more information, visit: https://www.localgovernment.qld.gov.au/for-councils/grants/current-programs/local-government-grants-and-subsidies-program
