City Deal closer as PM supports project

Fast train to Toowoomba closer to reality

A FAST train between Toowoomba and Brisbane is now a step closer after Prime Minister Scott Morrison signalled his support for the South East Queensland City Deal.

Mr Morrison told News Corp on Tuesday he supported the deal, which is an effort by the Southeast Queensland Council of Mayors (COMSEQ) and the Queensland Government to link one of the fastest growing regions in Australia together in a number of ways, via transport infrastructure, as well as digital infrastructure.

“I am committed to partnering with the State Government and councils to deliver a City Deal for southeast Queensland,” Mr Morrison said.

The City Deal would involve the creation of a 45 minute region, linking Brisbane to cities such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba in 45 minutes.

Toowoomba Mayor Paul Antonio, who is also the deputy chair of COMSEQ, said any 45 minute connection between Toowoomba and Brisbane would still be many years away.

“We’d imagine the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast would be priorities (if the deal goes ahead), then it would be staged coming our way from Ipswich and Rosewood,” Cr

Antonio said.

“Part of the deal is there will be a lot of rapid buses being used as a connector to the rail as it develops.

“It might mean in the first instance the terminus this end could well be down the Range and be connected by bus. That’s all got to be worked out.

“But the fact of the matter is we’ve got it on the table where it’s never been there before, all because of mayors working together.”

Groom MP John McVeigh said he was pleased COMSEQ was also calling for a project the Federal Government had committed $15 million to for a feasibility study.

“With Inland Rail work continuing and the fact that over 60 per cent of the goods shipped through the Port of Brisbane come through Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, our region is a vital component of a SEQ City Deal,” Dr McVeigh said.

“We are where regional Queensland and the southern states meet southeast Queensland.”

No money has yet been committed by the State or Federal Government for projects in the deal.

Photo: Darren England/AAP PLANNING: Examining the SEQ City Deal plan which was released yesterday are (from left) Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen, Deputy Premier Jackie Trad (centre) and Brisbane Mayor Graham Quirk.