Mayor tips big spend for region in budget

TOOWOOMBA should be rewarded for its strong economic performance with healthy spending in today’s state budget, according to Mayor Paul Antonio.

Cr Antonio said the Toowoomba region’s gross regional product growth of 6.2 per cent was a sign that it could make business happen, and he urged Treasurer Jackie Trad to loosen the wallet.

Making his annual preelection wish list, the Mayor said flood mitigation works and a second connection to Highfields were vital projects.

“I think successive governments in Brisbane have recognised the importance of Toowoomba in the state’s economy,” he said before flying to New Zealand on a delegation.

“We expect to be targeted because we’ve got things that need to be done, and that will require some support.

“I would suggest they can get good value for money in their investment, because we get things happening.

“Our industrial land is wellpriced, and our economy is improving dramatically.”

Other items included the second stage of the council’s Railway Parklands priority development area as well as rail funding to improve the western lines.

But Cr Antonio said the budget highlighted the need for all levels of government to discuss new funding models for councils across Australia, that didn’t rely on applications and grovelling.

“It’s time to begin a commitment for non-competitive funding. I don’t think it’s fair that it’s solely the burden of ratepayers to fund these projects,” he said.

“Local government in 10 years’ time is going to be on its knees.

“We’ve gone as hard as we can in terms of rates.

“We need a new financial model that will give us the certainty.”

The fourth Palaszczuk Government budget will feature an extra $40 million for the Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service.

Ms Trad has also promised $85 million to upgrade TAFE campuses across the state, including in Toowoomba.