Renewable way to generate jobs
RENEWABLE energy could be the saviour of North Queensland’s employment woes as the State Government predicts the industry will be a “key driver” of future jobs in Townsville.
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad was singing the praises of the renewable sector while in Townsville yesterday as part of her regional Queensland blitz to sell the 2018- 19 State Budget handed down last week.
Ms Trad toured the Port of Townsville, where more than 60 per cent of the imports this financial year have been for renewable energy projects.
“The port is experiencing a boom in terms of renewable energy imports,” she said.
“We’ve got more than $ 4 billion worth of ( renewable) projects in the pipeline, where when we came to government three years ago there was not one single significant solar or wind farm project.”
Ms Trad’s first budget as Treasurer included $ 18.6 million for 2018- 19 out of a $ 27.3 million total spend to begin the acquisition of Berth 4 cranes and development of the cargo terminal.
“The budget I handed down last week was firmly focused on delivering the jobs and industry for future North Queenslanders,” she said.
Ms Trad also called on the Federal Government to match the state’s $ 75 million funding commitment for the channel-widening of the port.
“We’ve put $ 75 million on the table. We’re getting on with the job … but the LNP just won’t contribute or support the thousands of local jobs reliant on this industry,” she said.
Townsville MP Scott Stewart said the port was the “lifeblood” of the North.
“This is the largest commercial port in North Australia and that means when it comes to solar farms and solar energy … everything is brought through this particular port,” he said.
Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper said the State Government’s 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030 would drive the booming industry further.
“The flow- on effect from that policy is job creation right here in Townsville,” he said.
Ms Trad also defended the State Government’s controversial youth bail house as a method of combating crime in Townsville.
“A whole of system approach ( to youth crime) … is also about making sure the programs are in place to keep kids in school to get them into training and to make sure that they are making the right decisions,” she said.
Ms Trad said reports a 13year- old girl allegedly fled one of Townsville’s bail houses and stole a car last week would be investigated.
“The details surrounding that particular incident will be fully investigated and any outcomes to that investigation the Government will absolutely take on board,” she said.