Queensland commits US$70bn to infrastructure investment

Australia’s Queensland government has announced AUD107.3bn (US$70.9bn) in infrastructure investment over the next four years as part of its Big Build programme. Priorities under the programme include decarbonising the state’s energy system, expanding its healthcare capacity, and preparing for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, according to Felix Project News. 

Under the record AUD37.4bn Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Programme (QTRIP), key regional transport projects will include the construction of the new 37.8km Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line connecting Beerwah and Maroochydore, and construction of Stage 3 of the Gold Coast Light Rail between Broadbeech South and Burleigh Heads. 

The Queensland budget also include a record AUD26bn investment in renewable energy assets, with AUD16.5bn earmarked for renewable energy and storage projects and AUD8.5bn for transmission infrastructure, including CopperString 2023, SuperGrid and Renewable Energy Zone transmission works. 

Around AUD124.5m will be spent on Works for Queensland Projects in 2024-25, including projects to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on the state. Queensland’s regions have experience floods and cyclones in recent years so funding has been put aside to not only reduce the impact of future events but also support communities with their recovery.