Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA) has welcomed the funding allocated to Queensland as part of the 2020 Federal budget, which will see a much-needed lift in investment in the sector to create jobs and boost the state’s economic recovery.
QMCA CEO Andrew Chapman outlined industry’s response, “Industry is delighted that the federal government is investing in Queensland and has a welcome focus on projects that will aid the state’s economic recovery and boost employment across the sector.”
“As an industry, we have been calling for a focus on not just ‘shovel ready’ projects, but also economic infrastructure (“shovel worthy”) projects and programs that will have long-lasting value to the economy. It’s great to see therefore projects such as the Coomera Connector, River Drive stage 2, the Cooktown to Weipa Corridor, Beams Rd level crossing, Centenary Bridge duplication and ongoing Bruce Highway safety and capacity upgrades committed to.”
“The challenge will now be how these projects can be brought to market in a way that engages the market fully, and the QMCA look forward to working with the delivery agencies to deliver this program. Our analysis of the project pipeline in Queensland has identified that by 2022 the current construction projects are concluding. Commitments to the range of projects, announced in the budget, are important to ensure the sustainability of an industry, that has been identified as crucial in the economic recovery.”
“In our 2020 election wishlist, we call for significant investment to be made in infrastructure that drives economic output and supports growth. The funding announcements made in the budget have supported those calls and will see improved infrastructure rolled out across the state.”
“The additional funds allocated to road safety projects and various upgrades are important to communities throughout Queensland and road freight users. The “use it or lose it” funding model will help to ensure that these funds are allocated quickly to where it is needed. The industry stands ready to work with the state government and councils in the efficient delivery of these needed improvements.”
“Acknowledging the significant investment commitment, made by the Federal Government, associated with Inland Rail and the feasibility funding for Fast Rail in South East Queensland; we hope that the commonwealth and next state government can also agree to fund further investment in rail infrastructure projects. In our Election Issues Paper, we have identified a range of important rail infrastructure programs that can create jobs as well as long term economic value for Queensland and Australia,” said Mr Chapman.
QMCA’s 2020 State Election wish list also called for significant reform to improve collaboration between, government agencies and industry to increase productivity, improve industry sustainability and to ensure the greatest return on investment for taxpayer funds.
“It was pleasing to see some additional funding allocated to Infrastructure Australia too in relation to some important work with industry around construction sector capacity and issues affecting the industry productivity in respect of the national infrastructure agenda and further development of the 2021 National Infrastructure Priority List and Audit.”
“Industry is ready to work with the state and the federal governments to ensure that projects are planned, procured and delivered as efficiently as possible resulting in projects moving from concept to construction as quickly as possible.”
“Investment in infrastructure is beneficial for all and will create jobs and boost the wider economy. Therefore promised funds must not be left in the bank, they need to be secured and used to lead Queensland’s economic recovery,” said Mr Chapman.
