Infrastructure funding prompts Gold Coast jobs boost

More than 90 jobs will be created across the Gold Coast when $5 million in Federal funding flows for eight shovel-ready projects, as part of the Morrison Government’s $1.5 billion Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program.

Federal Member for McPherson Karen Andrews MP said getting shovels in the ground on local construction projects was important for maintaining jobs and economic growth across the city.

“Every single job we support makes a huge difference in our local community – now and as we build our way out of the pandemic,” Ms Andrews said.

“That’s why we’ve moved quickly to approve funding to flow to these eight projects, which includes $2 million for storm water drainage improvements already underway in Currumbin Waters –providing 41 fulltime equivalent jobs for Gold Coasters,” she added.

Federal Member for Fadden Stuart Robert MP said another 15 jobs would be created through a range of City of Gold Coast projects.

“From landscape improvements to CCTV installation and resealing works - not only will this new program improve road safety and bolster the resilience of our local road networks, it will support jobs, construction businesses and economic growth,” Mr Robert said.

“We’ll work closely with the City of Gold Coast to ensure local projects get underway and are supporting jobs and businesses as soon as possible.”

Member for Moncrieff Angie Bell MP said the projects funded under the Program will have lasting economic and social benefits for local communities.

“I’m excited to see $900,000 dedicated to the $4.5 million make-over of Pizzey Park to an Olympic standard skatepark course which will be a legacy for generations to come,” Ms Bell said.

“We know the Gold Coast has suffered through COVID-19 restrictions, which is why we’re backing projects to create employment and business opportunities,” she added.

In May 2020, the Morrison Government also pre-paid $1.3 billion of this year’s Financial Assistance Grant to provide untied funding for all local councils across Australia to spend on local priorities.