Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area receive $80m record investment in marine infrastructure

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$80m investment committed to overhaul Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area marine infrastructure over the next six years, creating up to 100 jobs.

The Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area will receive the most significant investment in marine infrastructure in 30 years, creating up to 100 jobs.

The Queensland Government has matched the $40 million investment that the Australian Government delivered in the October Federal Budget.

This now sees the Australian and Queensland governments coming together to deliver a combined investment of $80 million in funding.

The $80 million in funding is jointly split between the Australian Government and the Queensland Government, each committing $40 million towards the program.

“Our joint funding commitment will support the vital marine infrastructure upgrades Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area communities need to safely and efficiently stay connected,” says Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.

“This is also yet another demonstration of the Albanese Government’s commitment to developing Australia’s regions by delivering funding for projects that create jobs, build opportunity and unlock economic growth,” says Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.

This investment will go towards improving marine infrastructure in the region, by overhauling jetties, wharves, boat ramps and more.

“The waterways surrounding the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula area make up the blue highway for those who live, work and travel in the region,” says Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

“Our government recognises how important the connection to water is, which is why we’re making the most significant investment in Torres Strait marine infrastructure in 30 years,” says Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

“This investment is creating 100 local jobs while delivering better, safer access to the communities that rely on this infrastructure the most,” says Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

This comes after a recent engineering report into the condition of marine infrastructure in the region identified a need for safer, more appropriate and accessible infrastructure for the communities.

Repairs and upgrades to infrastructure will happen in a staged process based on engineering priorities and consultation with local communities.

“This program will provide modern, fit-for-purpose infrastructure that will not only improve safety but will be resilient to climate, and will help boost the region’s economy,” says Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey.

“The strait is the community’s blue highway and we’re ensuring the jetties, wharves, and boat ramps this community depends on keeps locals moving safely,” says Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey.

The Australian, Queensland and local governments will work in conjunction to identify priorities for investment.

The announcement comes as the Queensland Government prepares to hold a Torres Strait and NPA Cost of Living Summit on Monday, March 20.

The Queensland Premier announced the summit would be held last year as part of the Thursday Island Community Cabinet held in September 2022.

Source: © Commonwealth of Australia

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