The importance of infrastructure and transport in regions like the Sunshine Coast is vital to the nation’s productivity and longer-term economic prosperity, according to Senator Bridget McKenzie.
The Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development joined Sunshine Coast MP Andrew Wallace to call on the Federal and State Labor Governments to get on board Sunshine Coast Rail.
“Productivity gains require ongoing investment in infrastructure projects such as the Beerwah to Maroochydore passenger rail line, and that’s why the Coalition Government made a $1.6 billion commitment to heavy rail in the 2022-23 Federal Budget.” Senator McKenzie said.
“It is imperative Treasurer Jim Chalmers keeps this project in his October 25 Budget in line with the somewhat tacit commitment Federal Labor made on Election eve.
“The State Government must also match the $1.6 billion spend to get this project on track and give the region the confidence it needs to maximise opportunities in the lead up to and beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
The Federal Member for Fisher said improving the efficiencies of our national highways and our rail networks are key drivers toward achieving a lower emissions economy.
“This is a great project,” he said. “It’s great for the nation, great for the region, and great for the environment.”
Mr Wallace said it has been more than 150 days since the Federal Budget announcement and more than 100 days of an Anthony Albanese Labor Government and still no commitment from the state government.
“As each day ticks by and the start of this project is further delayed, opportunities are lost here on the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Wallace said.
“The people of the Sunshine Coast are tired of being ignored by Labor, and they demand a fair go.”
Mr Wallace has made building better roads and rail for the Sunshine Coast his top priority since becoming the Federal Member for Fisher and has strongly campaigned for Sunshine Coast Rail.
“It’s no secret that I quietly hope that each visiting Minister or Shadow Minister gets stuck in traffic on the Bruce Highway, and they can see for themselves what a difference Sunshine Coast Rail will make for this region.”
