Funding bid for City's huge growth plans

Lobbying has ramped up to get essential funding for a host of major projects planned in the City of Moreton Bay.

Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain has been in the region for a tour and discussions with Mayor Peter Flannery.

“We’ve hit the ground running in week one of the new term of Council by meeting with the Federal Government to discuss priorities across City of Moreton Bay,” he said.

“With a population of over 500,000 people expected to grow to 800,000 by 2046, the visit from Minister McBain has been critical to discuss the infrastructure and funding support needed for this projected growth.”

Pictures - Minister visits Waraba

One of the major developments will be Waraba - formerly known as Caboolture West - which will be home to over 70,000 residents, making it the size of Mackay.

“We are thankful to both the State and Federal Government’s commitment to the Growth Area Compact (GAC) for Waraba under the SEQ City Deal which will bring more affordable and diverse housing options to this area,” Mayor Flannery said.

“But we need the infrastructure in place now to support those future developments before they’re completed, which is why we’re lobbying for funding toward a Bruce Highway Western Alternative and a much-needed major upgrade to the Buchanan Rd corridor.”

“The national housing and homelessness crisis was also top of the agenda as Council steps up to fill the gaps in services locally, through initiatives in our Homelessness and Housing Action Plan, such as our Attraction of Affordable Social Housing Policy.”

Pictures - Moreton Bay Central Sports

Minister McBain and Mayor Peter Flannery also discussed the Federal Government’s $32.75 million for the upgrade of Youngs Crossing - closed for eight days so far this year.

Also, essential upgrades to NBN internet services in rural areas of Moreton Bay, growth opportunities at The Mill precinct and a new wildlife hospital in Dakabin for which Council is seeking Federal and State Government support.

The Minister also visited Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex, where Stage 2 is underway thanks to $3.5 million from the Federal Government and $3.5 million from Council.

This $7 million project will create three brand new fields, improved field lighting and more car parks.

“As the third largest Council in Australia and one of the fastest growing, we have 12 major growth fronts across the city, which is more than double any other Council in Queensland.

“It was important to show Minister McBain a sample size of the growth and opportunity across Moreton Bay. As a former Mayor, she gets the challenges local council’s face.”

Minister McBain said: “It’s clear the projected growth for City of Moreton Bay is significant and I understand the critical need for timely infrastructure and investment.

“We welcome a collaborative approach to projects with such great community outcomes particularly in parts of Australia that are growing like Moreton Bay.”