Infrastructure projects a game changer for our ag sector

SIGNIFICANT infrastructure projects planned or under construction across the greater Darling Downs region will be a game changer for Queensland’s economic growth.

As outlined in the latest Colliers Radar: Paddock to Port, these projects will positively impact upon the agribusiness and industrial property sectors and lead to a seismic shift in the food supply chain distribution network.

The key projects in the region are Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport, which is already operational, Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, due for completion in 2018, and the Brisbane to Melbourne Inland Rail, due for completion in 2024.

“Queensland is already the nation’s most valuable state in terms of agricultural production, and well placed to realise long term growth as a major exporter of agricultural products over the coming decade,” Colliers International national director of rural and agribusiness Rawdon Briggs said.

“Driving this demand is change in the global market and consumer preferences which is contributing to the rise in demand for Australian agriculture products, particularly from Asia’s middle class.

“These infrastructure projects will further add to Queensland’s growth by creating employment, improving access to road, rail, air and port facilities and ultimately leading to increased productivity and export capability.

“With the gross value of Australian farm production at $58.4 billion in 2016-17 this sector now needs the ability to shift output from the paddock to port seamlessly.”