QMCA has today called on the Coalition and Federal Labor to make key election commitments to support the infrastructure industry in Queensland.
The key priorities for QMCA and its members are designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the construction and contracting industry in Queensland, a sector which employs thousands of Queenslanders and contributes significant economic benefit to the State and nation. We urge both parties to commit to the key priorities identified by QMCA for Queensland and to action them without delay should they be chosen by the Australian people to form the next government.
CEO, Jon Davies, outlined QMCA’s key priorities for the next federal government and the commitments the sector wishes to see from both major parties, “There are a number of commitments we would like to see from federal Labor and the Coalition that will help sustain our sector, maintain employment and deliver the infrastructure Queensland needs.“
“In terms of project funding, as well as new funding, we would like to see commitments to speed up the distribution of already committed funds to help bring projects to reality more quickly. It is also imperative that the National Partnership for Roads is renegotiated in good faith and contains equitable funding splits that recognise the national importance of key infrastructure assets in the State.”
“Funding for projects need to include the M1 Upgrade from Tugun to 8 Mile Plains and planning for the Coomera Connector. Cross River Rail funding must also become a reality as federal funding will free up Queensland government finances to invest in projects in regional Queensland.”
“Other high priority rail projects that should have increased funding committed as part of the election campaign are the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3a and Beerburrum to Nambour Upgrade,” said Mr Davies.
Seen as an essential watchdog, QMCA members are concerned over the future of the Australian Building & Construction Commission (ABCC), “The ABCC is a necessary watch dog to ensure compliance with Australia’s workplace laws in the building and construction industry. Whilst the it has not been able to completely prevent flagrant breaches of the law by certain union officials; it has reduced the frequency and severity of such breaches.”
“The QMCA calls on both parties to commit to retaining the ABCC in order to maintain the rule of law and to prevent bullying and harassment of hard-working Australians trying to earn a living without fear of intimidation,” said Mr Davies.
