Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA) has today released its Queensland election wishlist, that, if enacted, will see employment boom and the State’s economy rebound through the construction of essential infrastructure that will set the State’s economy up for long term future growth.
Employing almost 10% of the State’s workforce and returning $3 for every $1 spent, infrastructure is perfectly positioned to lead the State’s post-COVID economic recovery, says QMCA CEO, Andrew Chapman. “There is no doubt that our sector is ready to lead the state’s recovery, but that is contingent on there being a funded pipeline of approved major and the right policy settings in place to support rather than hinder the industry.”
“From QMCA’s perspective, we call on the major parties to commit to funding, and working with the private sector, on infrastructure projects that will create jobs and provide a return on the investment made by taxpayers.”
“According to our latest modelling, the currently approved pipeline of projects drastically reduces from 2022. There are few approved projects earmarked to replace works that will be completed in that period. This will see a drop of >25% in employment from the numbers we have today. As a priority, the next government must create a sustainable pipeline of projects, supported by policies which provide confidence to industry to invest in employment, supply chains and skills and training,” said Mr Chapman
Investment in infrastructure projects that complement existing projects and programs and will deliver long-lasting benefits to Queenslanders is the second priority for the next state government.
“We believe that across rail, road, energy, utilities and resources, there are projects in urban and regional Queensland that can be funded to deliver long-lasting economic outcomes.
“State investment will enable the private sector to further invest in development and will support the delivery much-needed infrastructure and the creation of jobs in our regions. Such investments are state-building and intergenerational,” said Mr Chapman.
Urban infrastructure investment to unlock the economic power of Queensland’s cities is the third priority outlined by QMCA. “Ongoing investment in urban infrastructure that will spur growth and economic activity in the cities and ensuring they can operate more efficiently is critical.”
‘Across road and rail, we have the opportunity to create connections across the region that will improve efficiency, interconnectivity and capacity, creating a world-class multi-modal transport network that supports business and industry.”
“The next government can take the lead and support key initiatives focussed on long term economic growth. The SEQ City Deal, SEQ Olympics Bid and Fast Rail for SEQ as well as water security for regional development are long term projects and initiatives that have the potential to transform the State. We call on the next state government to ensure that there is a plan and commitment to their development and delivery. Development of infrastructure such as this plays a crucial role in attracting much needed private sector investment into the State.”
“There is the potential for the next government to preserve thousands of jobs in Queensland and to create thousands more through infrastructure investment and deliver infrastructure that supports the state’s continued economic growth,” said Mr Chapman.
Industrial relations settings also must be addressed, “Industrial relations settings need to reflect national standards. Industry and all stakeholders must be able to operate with certainty from an employment perspective so that businesses can make strategic decisions without outside influence or direction from the government. This includes issues such as minimum conditions for employment,” said Mr Chapman.
However, QMCA appreciates that funding infrastructure in challenging economic times is problematic. “We would ask the next state government to look at innovative ways to fund works in Queensland. Nothing should be off the table, and all options should be considered.”
“The industry stands ready and willing to work constructively with the government to help drive the states economic recovery and growth forward,” said Mr Chapman.
