Noosa has fared well in the QLD State Government’s 2018-2019 Budget Highlights with commitments to a range of infrastructure and program initiatives. Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton was pleased to see our schools in the announcements, with Sunshine Beach State High, Cooran and Noosaville State receiving over $2million dollars combined for new buildings and upgrades that included learning areas and extensions to specialist areas.
“We have incredible schools and this funding is great news. Sunshine Beach High has been bursting at the seams, and a new building housing eight classrooms is vital to their ongoing success. Cooran State School will be upgrading their outdoor learning centre, with Noosaville State School will upgrade their senior playground and refurbish their Prep classes.”
Other items from the State Budget included ongoing departmental funding, with $791,000 for specialist Homelessness Services and $2.214 million for the construction of nine new accommodation units being of particular note.
“Given the crisis we are experiencing with affordable housing, this is welcome news and it enhances the mix of initiatives that we am currently working on with the community. As I have stated online and at community forums, and now as part of the Discussion Paper on Noosa 360, our affordable housing issue is multi-faceted, and it takes multiple initiatives, some assistance from Local and State Government and the community ‘will’ to resolve the challenge,” Ms. Bolton said.
Considering the overall ‘balance’ of the Budget, the Member for Noosa highlighted some areas that have been raised as cause for concern, including those that may add to the increase in the cost of living.
Ms. Bolton added “We have yet to fully ascertain what this means in real terms, however if there are those that impact our residents that are already having difficulty paying their rent, their electricity and basics, I will be reporting back.”
On many fronts the State Budget aligned with the aspirations of Noosa. Ms. Bolton was positive and confident that the area could realise its potential by the assistance offered through a number of funding ‘buckets’.
“There are many grant allocations, state-wide initiatives and reforms that have the capacity to benefit our electorate. The ‘enabling’ provided to diversify our economy through the increased Advance QLD funding is an example. It gives opportunities to local business, as demonstrated by local innovators Promis Network and Osler Technology, who have secured commitments of $200,000 across the next 2 years.”
Funding decisions for the Beckman’s Road upgrade has been delayed while TMR works with Council to finalise the conceptual in order to provide costings for a funding submission.
“Even though disappointing, it is essential that what is designed does the job properly, and I am sure the community agrees” said Ms. Bolton.
“Six Mile Bridge (Number 7) unfortunately has not received any good news, and even though on the QTRIP schedule, it has not been able to move further along the line. Ms. Bolton stated, “The Bridge Renewals funding pool is limited, and as with every Budget there are many disappointments for MP’s who are all fighting for their communities.
“However, the Noosa electorate contributes significantly to Local, State and Federal economies, and we need to address our infrastructure to ensure safety for residents and visitors, and continue to provide to these economies in a sustainable manner.”
Once the Estimates Hearings which commence July 24 are completed, a full report will be posted up to www.sandybolton.com
State Budget link: https://budget.qld.gov.au/budget-papers/