PM has empty pockets

Stern ‘no’ to light rail funds

PRIME Minister Tony Abbott has categorically ruled out funding a Gold Coast light rail extension, confirming his position that states must sell assets to receive federal help.

Mr Abbott was speaking in front of 1550 people at a breakfast function for The Southport School Foundation.

The Prime Minister told the Bulletin the connection of the light and heavy rail systems was “certainly an important project” but it wasn’t his government’s job to get it done.

“The easiest way for us to help would be with asset recycling and that’s what we are suggesting local and state governments should do if they want our help for urban public transport,” he said.

“Urban public transport has been something traditionally the states have looked after.”

At a media call, Mr Abbott added the State would receive extra money for roads from the Federal Government and could use savings there for light rail.

“We are providing an additional $6 billion over forward estimates for roads in Queensland” he said.

He suggested the State take up GoldLinQ’s offer to fully fund the project, a deal which requires the Government to budget for, but not provide, capital funding for the work.

“If the State Government doesn’t have the money, there is a no cost to the public sector option,” Mr Abbott said.

Later, Member for McPherson Karen Andrews hosted Mr Abbott at a community afternoon tea at Merrimac State School.

One of the crowd, Ian Smith, was so excited to shake Mr Abbott’s hand that he tripped over on his way there and cut his head open.

After bandaging the wound, he got a photo next to the leader. “It’s the highlight of my life,” he said.