RAIL - Back On Track Forum

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2023-24 Budget Cycle - Queensland Transport Planning Needs to Get Smarter

9th May 2023

RAIL Back On Track calls for the Queensland and Local Governments to get smarter on Transport Planning by sweating the infrastructure Queensland already has, and prioritising projects that help reduce congestion not add to the problem.

The 2023-24 Federal budget is likely to restrain the available funding for transport infrastructure but this should not spell disaster for Transport Planning in Queensland.  It actually presents an opportunity to focus on what we already have, not what we don't have.

There are ample opportunities, highlighted by RAIL Back On Track regularly, for the State and Local Governments to work collaboratively to maximise the value Queenslanders are getting out of past transport investments including:

1. Separated Bike Lanes - Physically separating bike lanes which are typically just painted lines on the road and/or placed on the road side of parked cars (the door zone) represents the single greatest return on transport investment (which is minimal if not over engineered) and results in not only significant increases in cycling but also increases in retail turn over in local communities

2. Bus Lanes - Separate bus lanes on all major roads as a single bus lane can move 4 times the number of people as a car lane.  Buses stuck in traffic also increases running costs as more buses are need to cover peak services. If a bus can complete it's run in half the time it can be made available for another route rather than an having to us an additional bus.  That bus can be used on another route to increase services/frequency at no additional costs.

3. SEQ Bus Network Redesign - SEQ bus network is full of duplication, indirect and/or infrequent routes, is confusing and hard to understand and in many cases bus compete with rail lines and/or don't connect to the railway station. A complete redesign of the network using a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) style frequent service approach was urgently required in 2013. 10 years later is more than overdue.

4. Maximising Train Frequencies - The current rollingstock and network across SEQ can operate at much higher frequencies without additional infrastructure especially off-peak frequencies.  For the majority of the day/night the rollingstock should only be non-operational for servicing and cleaning.

5. Cycling Facilities at Train/Busway Station and Major Bus Stops -  Integrating cycling and transit brings multiple benefits including, it puts mass transit within the reach of more people across a larger area  and provides users with greater flexibility to adapt trips based on their individual needs

6. Children and Seniors Free Travel - Ever noticed during school holidays that congestion is no where near as bad. Making trips for children, students and seniors free (all day every day) should not bee seen as a loss of revenue but rather as maximising the investment already made in buses, trains, ferries, trams and drivers. Over 70% of students are being driven to school rather than walking, cycling or catching public transport. The services are already running, let's just maximise their use.

7. Establish Public Transport Queensland (PTQ) - the above initiatives have been available to our governments for decades.  There is too much political name calling and not enough collaboration. It is clear we need a proper Public Transport Authority in Queensland to take over the administration and management of public transport in Queensland and work with local governments and to integrate and improve cycling infrastructure and facilities.

It is also time for all levels of Australian government to accept that widening roads to "bust congestion" is as futile as "smoking more to cure lung cancer".  It's the cause not the cure.  Engineers Australia noted in 2021 "This makes attempting to "bust traffic congestion" through road construction, self-defeating. In this context, Australia's past transport investment strategy may be seen as questionable."

So the next time a press release starts with "This congestion busting project..." it's time to question it and ask "Why are we spending money on making the problem worse?".

Reference:

The tax-payer subsidies for driving are typically a minimum of 6 times that of walking, cycling or public transport.

https://thediscourse.ca/scarborough/full-cost-commute



image: http://backontrack.org/docs/commuter_cost/infographic2.jpg

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track https://backontrack.org

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https://www.treasury.qld.gov.au/budget-and-financial-management/queensland-budget/2023-24-queensland-budget-submissions/

The Queensland Budget will be released on Tuesday 13 June 2023.

Submissions for the 2023–24 Queensland Budget closed on 31 March 2023.
Submissions were invited from individuals, businesses, and community groups for the 2023–24 Queensland Budget, which will build on the Government's work creating more jobs in more industries, delivering better services and protecting the Queensland lifestyle.

The Queensland Budget will be released on Tuesday 13 June 2023.

If you would like more information or would like to lodge a late budget submission, please email budgetsubmissions@treasury.qld.gov.au

The budget can't be that thrilling this year, because if it was they would of drip fed some exciting infrastructure developments by now.

2023-24 Queensland Budget

The 2023-24 Queensland Budget will be released on Tuesday 13 June 2023.

https://budget.qld.gov.au

Couriermail --> State budget: $35m to investigate toll tunnel on Brisbane's northside from Kedron to Carseldine $

QuoteThe state budget will include $35 million to investigate the feasibility of a congestion-busting tolled tunnel linking Brisbane's northern suburbs.

A congestion-busting tolled tunnel linking Kedron to Carseldine will be investigated under a $35m investment to be included in the upcoming state budget.

The 7 km tunnel would traverse the long-preserved North West transport corridor and stick closely to Gympie Rd, with Treasurer Cameron Dick confident it can be built within eight years if it stacks up.

The state government will set aside $35m in the upcoming 2023/24 budget to determine if a toll tunnel on Brisbane's northside from Airport Link at Kedron and emerging at Carseldine is viable.

A new entity named North Brisbane Infrastructure will be established by the Queensland Investment Corporation to undertake the detailed transport modelling, technical assessments and financial analysis.

Public and active transport needs, like bicycle lanes, will also be considered. ...

^

Couriermail --> Treasurer Cameron Dick promises 'significant' cost of living relief in upcoming budget $

QuoteQueenslanders have been promised "big and small" targeted cost of living relief measures as Treasurer Cameron Dick revealed the upcoming state budget had been the hardest to craft so far.

Queenslanders have been promised "significant" funds to ease hip pocket pain as Treasurer Cameron Dick revealed the upcoming state budget had been the hardest to craft so far.

To be handed down on Tuesday, the state budget will include "big and small" targeted cost of living relief measures in the form of rebates.

While last year's budget included a new mental health levy and controversial changes to coal royalties, there won't be "substantive" changes to revenue measures this time around.

But Mr Dick has also ruled out tax freezes as a way to help ease living costs. ...

https://twitter.com/7NewsSC/status/1668170006344118272

2pm > https://tv.parliament.qld.gov.au/

Papers will be available at https://budget.qld.gov.au


Bells are ringing !!   

Cameron Dick
@camerondickqld

This financial year QLD's budget surplus will be $12.3 billion - the largest of any state or territory government.

Papers now available at https://budget.qld.gov.au   

Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1)

$64.8 million in 2023-24 out of a $550.8 million total spend towards upgrading sections of the North Coast rail line between Beerburrum and Nambour. Delivered in partnership with the Australian Government.

https://budgetmap.treasury.qld.gov.au/#/rap?region=310

Gold Coast Light Rail (Stage 3), Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads

$259.4 million in 2023-24 out of a $1.219 billion total spend towards extending the light rail from Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads. This project will connect communities with business and jobs, hospitals and medical facilities, education, shopping, dining, entertainment and sporting centres. This investment is estimated to support an average of 760 direct jobs over the life of the project. Delivered in partnership with the Australian Government and the Gold Coast City Council.

https://budgetmap.treasury.qld.gov.au/#/rap?region=310

https://budget.qld.gov.au/overview/the-big-build/

Providing a strong transport network

Given the geographical size of Queensland, a strong transport network is vital to supporting our communities and industries. 

Key regional transport projects supported by the 2023–24 Budget include:

. the ongoing Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, which includes $1 billion to construct Cooroy to Curra (Section D), $662.5 million to upgrade the Bruce Highway between Caboolture−Bribie Island Road and Steve Irwin Way, $350 million to construct a new road to connect the Bruce Highway with Mackay−Slade Point Road, and $336 million towards a bypass of Tiaro

. construction of Stage 3 of the Gold Coast Light Rail, which will connect to the existing Gold Coast Light Rail network (from Helensvale to Broadbeach South), delivering a 6.7-kilometre extension from Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads and providing 8 additional stations

. providing for the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail (Kuraby to Beenleigh) upgrade, with a plan to increase the number of tracks between Kuraby and Beenleigh from 2 to 4 tracks, with modernised rail systems, station upgrades and level crossing removals along this 20-kilometre corridor

. establishing the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP), which will build 65 new 6-car passenger trains at a purpose-built manufacturing facility at Torbanlea, in the Maryborough region, as well as construct a new rail facility at Ormeau, in the Gold Coast region.  The QTMP will support South East Queensland's population and economic growth, as well as Cross River Rail and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) is a 4-year program, released annually, outlining current and planned investments in transport infrastructure. QTRIP spans road, rail, bus, cycling and marine infrastructure on freight, commuter and recreational networks.  The program of works detailed in QTRIP represents a $32.1 billion investment over the 4 years from 2023−24 to 2026−27.

Further details on QTRIP are available at www.tmr.qld.gov.au by searching for QTRIP.

Nothing new for public transport, as far as I can tell.

https://budget.qld.gov.au/?s=Direct+Sunshine+Coast+Rail+Line

Sorry, no results were found.

Switching off Parliament TV and back to youtube ... 

Suprised that more funding is being provided for the Long Distance Passenger
Rail Program: 'The government is providing additional funding of $5 million over 3 years for completion of the
Long Distance Passenger Rail Program business case and pre-procurement activities'

Palaszczuk Government budget backing Queensland's Big Build

https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/97924

====

Road and transport infrastructure investment across Queensland supports jobs and growing Queensland communities

Has not been made available now online > https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/97937

Copy from email:

The Palaszczuk Government today announced a $32.1 billion program to continue investment in road and transport projects over the next four years.

The Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) for 2023-24 to 2026-27 will be delivered across the state over the next four years and is estimated to continue to support an average of 25,200 direct jobs.

The Palaszczuk Government's investment in roads and transport infrastructure has provided significant support to Queensland's economic growth and job pipeline in recent years, with this year's program of work focusing on a pragmatic approach to addressing rising labour and resource costs while responsibly continuing to deliver good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for the people of Queensland.

This QTRIP commits an affordable and sustainable infrastructure pipeline that will continue to support Queensland's economy and deliver project commitments while promoting economic confidence and responsible project delivery.

Infrastructure investment has a direct benefit to the economic wellbeing of communities through connections to better services and jobs, helping sustain local businesses and industries.

The program encompasses a range of infrastructure investment including road, rail, marine, passenger transport, and active transport projects, which will all contribute to enhancing connectivity, improving safety, and supporting economic growth across the state.

A significant portion of the $32.1 billion QTRIP will be focused on regions, with investment outside of the Metropolitan region (that is, outside of Brisbane, Ipswich and Redland local government areas) estimated to support an average of 14,850 direct jobs over the four years.

The Australian Government remains the Queensland Government's key funding partner for delivering road and transport infrastructure. The Queensland Government acknowledges the Australian Government's Independent Strategic Review of its Infrastructure Investment Program, and that the outcomes of the Review may impact on some jointly funded investments in QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27.

While the review is conducted, the Australian Government has deferred decisions on future infrastructure investment for projects in the scope of the review. The Queensland Government will continue its strong advocacy for the state through this process, reflecting Queensland's status as the state with the fastest growing population. The Palaszczuk Government will seek to ensure that the Australian Government maintains its current level of funding for the transport corridors that connect the state's dispersed population centres and other priority locations.

Queensland, as well as all other Australian jurisdictions, continues to be impacted by adverse global and local market conditions with pressures being felt across the broader building and civil construction sectors. Extraordinary escalation in construction costs has been consistently impacting on project budgets through various stages of the project lifecycle.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) continues to implement initiatives to manage cost-related risk, including collaborative contracting, attracting and retaining a sustainable workforce, investing in research and innovation, applying value-engineering to options assessment and product and service procurement strategies. However, the scale of cost escalation rates and other market factors have intensified and require consideration of additional federal and state funding to address project-level cost pressures.

With a strong commitment to road safety, $1.815 billion has been allocated to targeted road safety initiatives, which complements other investment in behavioural change initiatives that aim to reduce lives lost and serious injuries on Queensland roads. This includes over $500 million for the Road Safety Program in partnership with the Australian Government.

Rail continues to be a key focus, with significant investments including $4.869 billion towards the job-creating Queensland Train Manufacturing Program. Allocations of $2.598 billion towards the Logan to Gold Coast Faster Rail project, and the  $550.8 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1) are also confirmed.

The $1.219 billion Gold Coast Light Rail (Stage 3), Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads is also continuing construction.

Recognising the importance of active transport, the Palaszczuk Government is investing in safe and connected active transport infrastructure, including the $22 million Veloway Cycleway (V1) O'Keefe Street bridge, the $6.5 million New England Highway Cycleway Highfields to Toowoomba (Stage 2) shared path, and the $6.1 million Beerburrum to Landsborough (Stage 1) Beerwah to Glass House active transport facilities.

Queensland boaties can also look forward to an investment of $185 million towards maintenance and upgrades of their local facilities, including boat ramps, floating walkways, pontoons and dredging projects around the state. This investment underscores the government's commitment to supporting recreational boating and enhancing waterway infrastructure across the state and allowing Queenslanders to enjoy our great lifestyle out on the water.

Quotes attributable to Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk

"This year's Queensland Transport and Roads Infrastructure Program (QTRIP) continues to invest in the critical infrastructure we need for Australia's fastest growing population.

"Supporting over 25 000 direct jobs right across the state, QTRIP delivers on safety, connectivity and accessibility.

"Investing in road, rail, marine, passenger transport, and active transport means good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for all Queenslanders."

Quotes attributable to Treasurer Cameron Dick

"QTRIP commits a $32.1 billion program of works right across the state over the next four years.

"This continues our investment in significant projects for all Queensland communities, improving roads, rail and marine facilities, as well as boosting active and passenger transport services.

"The commitment to delivering safe and connected road and transport infrastructure reflects the government's adaptability to the ever-changing construction and job market dynamics."

Quotes attributable to the Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey:

"Reducing road trauma and saving lives remains one of government's highest priorities, and this year's QTRIP investment builds upon a legacy of constant improvement to our roads through various safety programs.

"QTRIP plays a pivotal role in unlocking economic prosperity and improving the well-being of Queensland communities.

"By strengthening businesses, providing vital connections, and generating employment opportunities, the government's transport network will enhance the overall quality of life for Queenslanders."

QTRIP highlights

The QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 includes investment all around the state, including:

South Coast Region: $5.504 billion program estimated to support an average of 4,130 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$2.163 billion Coomera Connector (Stage 1), Coomera to Nerang (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1776678$1.219 billion Gold Coast Light Rail (Stage 3), Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads (jointly funded with the Australian Government and Gold Coast City Council) 938148$1 billion towards Pacific Motorway, Varsity Lakes (Exit 85) to Tugun (Exit 95) upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 852582$1 billion funding commitment for Pacific Motorway, Daisy Hill to Logan Motorway (jointly funded with the Australian Government). Project cost, scope and timing subject to further planning. 2054898$750 million Pacific Motorway, Eight Mile Plains to Daisy Hill upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 852345$500 million New Gold Coast Stations (Pimpama, Hope Island and Merrimac) 2316082$134.4 million Cunningham Highway (Ipswich - Warwick), 2020 Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements reconstruction works (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1452806$110.8 million Pacific Motorway, Exit 49, upgrade interchange (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1176064$95.1 million towards Loganlea train station relocation (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1490266$57.4 million towards Mount Lindesay Highway (Brisbane - Beaudesert), Johanna Street to South Street (Jimboomba), duplication 1776871
Metropolitan Region: $4.565 billion program estimated to support an average of 3,500 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$1 billion funding commitment for Gateway Motorway, Bracken Ridge to Pine River upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government). This commitment is part of integrated planning underway for Gateway Motorway and Bruce Highway Upgrades. Project cost, scope and timing subject to further planning and negotiation with the Australian Government. 15104170$450 million funding commitment for Brisbane Metro, Woolloongabba Station (jointly funded with the Australian Government and Brisbane City Council) 2383186$352.5 million funding commitment towards Boundary Road (Coopers Plains) rail level crossing upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government and Brisbane City Council) 1488479$271.5 million towards Centenary Bridge Upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 669801$209.3 million towards Beams Road (Carseldine and Fitzgibbon) upgrade rail level crossing (jointly funded with the Australian Government and Brisbane City Council) 2248719$172 million Northern Transitway, bus priority works 728940$131.4 million towards Linkfield Road Overpass upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1160465$97 million Cleveland - Redland Bay Road, Anita Street to Magnolia Parade, duplicate to four lanes 1244428$80 million Cleveland - Redland Bay Road, Anita Street to Giles Road, duplicate lanes 2781657$25 million Cunningham Arterial Road (Ipswich Motorway) Rocklea to Darra, remaining sections, planning (jointly funded with the Australian Government)  2369175
North Coast Region: $3.147 billion program estimated to support an average of 2,460 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$948 million funding commitment for Bruce Highway, Gateway Motorway to Dohles Rocks Road upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government). This commitment is part of integrated planning underway for Gateway Motorway and Bruce Highway Upgrades and considers upgrades to Gympie Arterial Road (between Strathpine Road and Gateway Motorway). Project cost, scope and timing subject to further planning and negotiation with the Australian Government.1509103$733 million Bruce Highway, Anzac Avenue to Uhlmann Road upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2588655$662.5 million Bruce Highway, Caboolture - Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 481355$550.8 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1) (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 858087$320 million Sunshine Motorway, Mooloolah River Interchange Upgrade (Stage 1) (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2007574$250 million funding commitment for Bruce Highway, Dohles Rocks Road to Anzac Avenue upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government). This commitment is part of integrated planning underway for Gateway Motorway and Bruce Highway Upgrades. Project cost, scope and timing subject to further planning and negotiation with the Australian Government. 1739444$105 million Bruce Highway, Pine River to Caloundra Road, Smart Motorways (Stage 2) (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 371378$75.2 million Strathpine - Samford Road, Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road intersection, improve safety 1572868$39.3 million towards Caboolture - Bribie Island Road, upgrade program (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1158882$36.4 million towards Caboolture - Bribie Island Road, Hickey Road to King Johns Creek, upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1779573
Wide Bay Burnett District: $1.231 billion program estimated to support an average of 1,070 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$1 billion Bruce Highway (Cooroy to Curra) Section D, construction (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 686965$336 million Bruce Highway, Tiaro Bypass, construct four lane bypass (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 371601$45.9 million towards Maryborough - Hervey Bay Road and Pialba - Burrum Heads Road, upgrade intersection (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2006450$44.2 million Bruce Highway (Gympie - Benaraby) various locations, upgrade culverts (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1875515$41.9 million Isis Highway (Bundaberg - Childers), various locations, improve safety 1776639$31.4 million towards Torbanlea - Pialba Road, various locations, upgrade intersections and floodways (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1219670$23.9 million D'Aguilar Highway, Alexander Lane to Bunya Highway, improve safety 1388289$18.5 million Booral Road and Boundary Road (Urangan), intersection upgrade 2182485$12.5 million Bruce Highway and Buxton Road, upgrade intersection (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1459506
Darling Downs District: $821 million program estimated to support an average of 830 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$46.7 million towards Gore Highway (Millmerran - Goondiwindi), Wyaga Creek, upgrade floodway (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2342858$27 million Toowoomba - Cecil Plains Road, improve safety 2673200$23.4 million Gore Highway (Toowoomba - Millmerran) and Toowoomba - Athol Road, improve safety 2671946$19.5 million New England Highway (Warwick - Wallangarra), improve safety 1123130$16.9 million Cunningham Highway (Warwick - Inglewood), improve safety 2677439$16.8 million Cunningham Highway (Ipswich - Warwick), Tregony to Maryvale, improve safety (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2392873$13.2 million New England Highway (Toowoomba - Warwick), improve safety 1778166$6.5 million New England Highway Bikeway, Highfields to Toowoomba (Stage 2), construct shared path 2325017$6 million Toowoomba - Cecil Plains Road, 2022 Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements reconstruction works (jointly funded with the Australian Government 2502237$5.9 million Highfields Road, Kratzke Road and O'Brien Road, upgrade intersection (jointly funded with Toowoomba Regional Council) 2729338
South West District: $305 million program estimated to support an average of 340 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$15.4 million Bollon Road, construct to sealed standard (jointly funded with the Australian Government and Maranoa Regional Council) 2707186$10.1 million Castlereagh Highway (St George - Hebel), 2022 Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements betterment works (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2744073$7.8 million Quilpie - Adavale Road, various locations, upgrade seal and floodways (jointly funded with Quilpie Shire Council) 1166971$4.8 million Quilpie - Thargomindah Road (Thargomindah), various locations, construct to sealed standard 1147343$3.6 million Castlereagh Highway (St George - Hebel), 2022 Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements reconstruction works (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2459935
Fitzroy District: $1.392 billion program estimated to support an average of 1,180 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$1.065 billion Rockhampton Ring Road (jointly funded with the Australian Government), including funding in the forward estimates for early works 1167108$250 million Bruce Highway, Gladstone to Rockhampton, upgrade intersections (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2603662$125 million Access to Gladstone Port upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1193429$85.4 million towards Rockhampton - Yeppoon Road, Yeppoon Road upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1192019$75 million Capricorn Highway (Emerald - Alpha) (Package 1), strengthen and widen pavement (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2335273$37.6 million Bruce Highway (Rockhampton - St Lawrence) and Bolsover Street, upgrade intersection (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 854972$25.5 million Dawson Developmental Road (Springsure - Tambo), priority upgrades (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2515815$21.8 million Bruce Highway (Rockhampton - St Lawrence), various locations (Rockhampton), improve intersections (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 851205$21 million Rockhampton - Emu Park Road, upgrade overtaking lanes and improve safety 1810071$19.6 million Capricorn Highway (Emerald - Alpha) (Package 3), strengthen and widen pavement (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2338131
Central West District: $445 million program estimated to support an average of 440 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$182.5 million funding commitment for Outback Way future priorities (jointly funded with the Australian Government). Project details and timing subject to further planning and negotiation with the Australian Government. 1217749$45 million Capricorn Highway (Emerald - Alpha) (Package 2), strengthen and widen pavement (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2337706$11.2 million Capricorn Highway (Emerald - Alpha), widen pavement 1572870$2.4 million Richmond - Winton Road, pave and seal 2109167$2.4 million Cramsie - Muttaburra Road, rehabilitate and widen pavement 2109124$2.4 million Barcaldine - Aramac Road, rehabilitate and widen pavement 2109074$2.4 million Diamantina Developmental Road (Quilpie - Windorah), Long Crossing to Windorah, widen pavement 2587385
Mackay Whitsunday District: $769 million program estimated to support an average of 700 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$497.4 million Mackay Ring Road (Stage 1), including works between the intersection of the Mackay Ring Road and Bald Hill Road (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1491450$350 million Mackay Port Access, Bruce Highway to Mackay - Slade Point Road, construct new two lane road (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1170084$187.4 million towards Walkerston Bypass (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 455240$56.5 million Bruce Highway, Emu Creek to Drays Road, various locations, widen formation (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 295492$31.4 million Bruce Highway, Bowen Connection Road to Champion Street intersection, widen pavement (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 12269$23 million Bruce Highway, Jumper Creek, upgrade flood immunity (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 370716$21 million Proserpine - Shute Harbour Road, Hamilton Plains, upgrade flood immunity (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1198985$15 million Bruce Highway (Mackay - Proserpine), Goorganga Plains, plan and preserve (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 371124$12 million Bruce Highway (Proserpine - Bowen), Bowen Connection Road, improve intersection (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 721425$12 million Peak Downs Highway (Clermont - Nebo), Millennium Coal Mine to Carbourough Coal Mine, construct overtaking lanes 1197099
Northern District: $994 million program estimated to support an average of 860 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$280 million Townsville Ring Road (Stage 5) (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1059916$109.5 million Townsville Northern Access Intersections Upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 319179$96.9 million Burdekin River Bridge, rehabilitation program (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1620983$96 million Townsville Connection Road (Stuart Drive), University Road to Bowen Road Bridge (Idalia), improve safety 1810128$95 million Garbutt - Upper Ross Road (Riverway Drive) (Stage 2), Allambie Lane to Dunlop Street, duplicate to four lanes (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1776745$70 million Townsville Connection Road (Stuart Drive), Bowen Road Bridge (Idalia), duplicate bridge and approaches 2419830$48 million Bruce Highway, Burdekin Deviation, plan and preserve corridor (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 399292$48 million Bruce Highway, Ingham to Cardwell Range Deviation, plan and preserve corridor (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 399270$43.2 million Garbutt - Upper Ross Road, Halliday Street to Gouldian Avenue, improve safety 2684163$19.3 million Ross River Road, Mabin Street to Rolfe Street, improve safety 2682971
North West District: $421 million program estimated to support an average of 420 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$50 million Kennedy Developmental Road (The Lynd - Hughenden), progressive sealing (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1459389$42.7 million Flinders Highway (Julia Creek - Cloncurry), Scrubby Creek, strengthen pavement and widen floodway (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1459426$30 million Flinders Highway (Richmond - Julia Creek), Alick Creek, upgrade floodway and install culverts (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2340058$25.5 million Landsborough Highway (Kynuna - Cloncurry), McKinlay River, improve pavement and drainage works (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2339886$22.5 million Flinders Highway (Richmond - Julia Creek), various locations, improve pavement and upgrade culvert (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2340086$13 million Richmond - Winton Road, strengthen and widen pavement (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2340473$11.2 million Burke Developmental Road (Cloncurry - Normanton), various locations, widen pavement 8003900$10 million Flinders Highway (Julia Creek - Cloncurry), Canal Creek, replace bridge (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2340056$7.5 million Cloncurry - Dajarra Road, Malbon Creek floodway, upgrade culvert and approaches (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2340394$6.5 million Landsborough Highway (Kynuna - Cloncurry), Nora Creek, improve pavement and drainage works (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2339972
Far North District: $1.576 billion program estimated to support an average of 1,300 direct jobs over the four-year program. Major investments include:
$359 million Captain Cook Highway, Cairns CBD to Smithfield, upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1351442$300 million Cairns Western Arterial Road, Redlynch Connector Road to Captain Cook Highway duplication (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1810618$262.5 million funding commitment for Kuranda Range Road upgrade (jointly funded with the Australian Government). Project details and timing subject to further planning and negotiation with the Australian Government. 2605703$225 million Bruce Highway, Cairns Southern Access Corridor (Stage 5), Foster Road, upgrade intersection (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1176520$54.9 million towards Peninsula Developmental Road, Archer River Crossing, construct bridge (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1445971$40 million funding commitment for Torres Strait Islands Marine Infrastructure Program 2788251$31.8 million towards Cairns Southern Access Cycleway, construct cycleway (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1249733$21.3 million Gillies Range Road, various locations, improve safety 1136484$17.6 million Peninsula Developmental Road (Laura - Coen), Yarraden to Three Sisters (Part A), pave and seal (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 1447586$12.1 million Gulf Developmental Road (Croydon - Georgetown) (Package 4), strengthen and widen pavement (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2361416
Other major investments:
$4.869 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing Program$2.598 billion towards Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail (jointly funded with the Australian Government)$1 billion funding commitment for the Inland Freight Route, Charters Towers to Mungindi (jointly funded with the Australian Government)
Further information:

QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 is available online: www.tmr.qld.gov.au/qtriponline.

ENDS

Couriermail --> Analysis: $12.3b once-in-a-lifetime chance for significant change totally blown .. $

QuoteWith an unprecedented $12.3 billion surplus the state government had a once-in-a-lifetime chance to deliver transformative change. Instead it's been blown on rebates, a bit of debt and planned roads, writes Matthew Killoran. ...

See how they include the federal money in order to grossly inflate what Annastacia is actually spending in Queensland.

Rail continues to be a key focus, with significant investments including $4.869 billion towards the job-creating Queensland Train Manufacturing Program. Allocations of $2.598 billion towards the Logan to Gold Coast Faster Rail project, and the  $550.8 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1) are also confirmed.

Of that wowee $550.8 million which hasn't even started for the heavy rail component, after more than 5 years since its announcement.
Annastacia's low spend is just $160.8 million and she has cut the project back to Beerwah and cut the park'n'rides from 2000 carparks as announced in 2018, back to 650.
1350 carparks have vapourised.

Record cuts with record surpluses... and their word or announcements - are born to be broken.

What a f@&king disappointment. If you want significant rail projects, go to NSW.

Vote these to$$ers out.

- Queensland Train Manufacturing Program - probably building the world's most expensive rollingstock...I'm all for local construction...but get real!!!!

- As for the rest...I judge by what people DO...not simply say and this govt's had years of just saying when it comes to rail infrastructure!

  the dreams of if only below....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQFIo8oMaNA&ab_channel=METRONET

I have conducted my annual analysis of the budget spend on #B2N.

For the first time in the five years since B2N was announced in 2018, they spent what was budgeted in the 2022-23 financial year.
Of course it doesn't make up for all the massive multiple prior year underspends.
Still, credit where credit is due.

Underspend to date compared to budget as at 30/06/2023 = $70,711,000.00

These are not the sort of spend levels on the sort of projects expected that would put SEQ on track to a smooth journey towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games so that everything will be ready on time

Quote from: Stillwater on June 13, 2023, 21:46:00 PMThese are not the sort of spend levels on the sort of projects expected that would put SEQ on track to a smooth journey towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games so that everything will be ready on time

Exactly.  Minister Bailey has engaged on our recent facebook post:

https://www.facebook.com/RAILBackOnTrack/posts/649808127186046

Brisbanetimes --> Record $12b surplus as Qld rides property and coal boom

https://twitter.com/ozbob13/status/1668615894485057537

Not a good look.  More spinners, less police ... 

https://twitter.com/JarrodBleijieMP/status/1668754246198771712

The above number say it all.

Worst Government in Queensland history at least in my time.

https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/97950

Making tracks towards transforming the SEQ rail network

14th June 2023

Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services
The Honourable Mark Bailey

The Palaszczuk Government's 2023-24 Budget confirms an ongoing pipeline of rail infrastructure investment to continue delivering its vision for more frequent, reliable, and accessible rail journeys for Queenslanders.

The investment is part of the Palaszczuk Government's $32.1 billion Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) 2023-24 to 2026-27 which will continue to support an average of 25,200 jobs across the state. 

QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 invests $9.6 billion towards rail infrastructure.

This affordable and sustainable investment in rail continues to deliver on key priorities set out in SEQ Rail Connect – the Queensland Government's blueprint for preparing the South East Queensland (SEQ) rail network for the future.

It will deliver new trains and new stations and lay the foundations for a modernised network, including critical track upgrades, signalling improvements, and station upgrades.

The investment in rail will continue to drive our economic recovery, supporting jobs and delivering on previous project commitments while promoting economic confidence and responsible project delivery.

The QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 includes rail infrastructure investments such as:

. $4.869 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing Program 1804

. $2.598 billion towards Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 2365067

. $550.8 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1) (jointly funded with the Australian Government) 858087

. $500 million New Gold Coast Stations (Pimpama, Hope Island, Merrimac) 2316082

QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 also features a $4.3 billion investment led by Queensland Rail including close to $300 million towards continue the South-East Queensland Station Accessibility Upgrade Program.

Banyo, Bundamba, Burpengary, Lindum and Morningside stations will each be upgraded to enhance access for customers with disabilities, seniors and parents travelling with young children.

All stations will have lifts installed to help with boarding as well as hearing augmentation loops, new tactile services to better navigate the stations and active transport enclosures to enable customers to ride to and safely store their bikes or scooters at each station.

The QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 encompasses a range of infrastructure investment including road, rail, passenger transport, active transport and maritime projects, which will all contribute to enhancing connectivity, improving safety, and supporting economic growth across the state.

Quotes attributable to the Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey:

"Continued investment into infrastructure such as the $2.598 billion towards Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail and the $550.8 million Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1) (both jointly funded with the Australian Government) will transform the rail network in South East Queensland.

"These projects will mean less time sitting in congestion, and our network more accessible for customers.

"With Queensland continuing to be the state of choice, our population is booming and rail is a sensible and environmentally sustainable solution for moving lots of people around efficiently.

"Cross River Rail will establish a second river crossing, unlocking a key bottleneck in our rail network.

Our investments demonstrate we are not just building Cross River Rail, we are building a new network."

QTRIP 2023-24 to 2026-27 is available online: www.tmr.qld.gov.au/qtriponline.

ENDS

^
All projects continue.  Nothing new there.

But the real 2023-24 budget expenditure is a lot less than quoted, which is overall project cost.

But it sounds better hey boys and girls?    

Quote from: ozbob on June 13, 2023, 14:33:30 PMhttps://budget.qld.gov.au/?s=Direct+Sunshine+Coast+Rail+Line

Sorry, no results were found.

Is in QTRIP

https://www.publications.qld.gov.au/ckan-publications-attachments-prod/resources/e2f11e9c-f59c-4292-a5cf-f35716d083dc/qtrip-2023-24-to-2026-27_accessible.pdf?ETag=2bf3fb8c2f49ba289b9877e887d7e89f

Page 65

Estimated expenditure to 30 June 2023 $5,000,000
2023-24 $5,588,000
2024-25 $3,412,000

Queensland Parliament Hansard

https://documents.parliament.qld.gov.au/events/han/2023/2023_06_14_DAILY.pdf

Budget, Rail Manufacturing Industry

Hon. MC BAILEY (Miller—ALP) (Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital
Services) (10.11 am): In a tight construction market, this year's budget focuses on the delivery of our
road, rail, port and active transport commitments across the state. I am pleased to inform the House
that the Palaszczuk government's budget confirms funding to build trains in Maryborough by
Queensland manufacturing workers and to make our network more accessible.

Opposition members interjected.

Mr BAILEY: One would have thought they would be bipartisan, but it never is. The budget
includes a $4.8 billion allocation in the forward estimates towards the capital costs of the Queensland
Train Manufacturing Program. That program will see 65 new passenger trains built at a new
purpose-built train manufacturing facility at Torbanlea in Maryborough, supporting 800 long-term jobs.
As the member for Maryborough will tell you, the Palaszczuk government wants to see the Maryborough
region be the strong beating heart of a vibrant rail manufacturing sector in Queensland.

The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program will also see the revitalised Rockhampton
railyards play a key role in the rail manufacturing supply chain. I was pleased to join the member for
Rockhampton and the member for Keppel earlier this month at the Rocky railyards to announce the
first tenants into that facility: a fibreglass manufacturer and a hydrogen rail research collaboration
between Queensland Rail and Central Queensland University. The Queensland Train Manufacturing
Program will see new stabling and maintenance facilities built at Ormeau, establishing good, ongoing
jobs in the rail sector on the northern Gold Coast to maintain our new rail fleet.

In addition to delivering manufacturing jobs in Maryborough instead of importing them overseas,
we have learned from the mistakes the previous LNP government made when they ordered New
Generation Rollingstock made overseas. Those trains were not compliant with disability standards, and
we are retrofitting. I can report that funding continues for that program. We have now passed the
halfway mark in retrofitting these carriages to be disability compliant, including: a second accessible
toilet on every NGR train; more grab/hand handrails; improving and adding Braille and tactile text to
signage; an increase of 10 per cent to space inside toilet cubicles for easier movement; an increase in
priority seating for those who need it from 24 to 88 per train; and improving wheelchair allocated spaces.
Of the 75 NGR trains being retrofitted to comply with disability standards, I am pleased to report that
41 are now compliant and running passenger services across South-East Queensland. A further eight
are at the Maryborough workshop being fixed by manufacturing workers in Queensland.

Other accessibility measures in yesterday's budget include an allocation of funds towards five
new stations for Queensland Rail's Accessibility Upgrade Program. Banyo, Bundamba, Burpengary,
Lindum and Morningside stations will be transformed with an additional $300 million to the existing
$500 million program. The budget allocates $500 million towards three new accessible stations on the
Gold Coast at Hope Island, Pimpama and Merrimac.

Opposition members interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: Members to my left will cease their interjections. The minister is delivering a
statement which appears to be very factual. I will hear the statement. Members in the House will hear
the statement.

Mr BAILEY: These eight stations, in addition to the 12 either new or upgraded stations being
delivered by the Cross River Rail Development Authority and part of Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail,
mean that across the network around 30 stations will be brought up to modern accessibility standards
for people in wheelchairs, people with disabilities and parents with prams. We are not just building
Cross River Rail—we are continuing our rail revolution.

Queensland Parliament

https://documents.parliament.qld.gov.au/events/han/2023/2023_06_14_DAILY.pdf

Questions Without Notice

Budget, Infrastructure Projects

Mr BLEIJIE: My question is to the Premier. Nearly 80 per cent of the second Bruce Highway
funding and almost two-thirds of Olympic funding will not be funded for at least the next four years while
there is nothing to build the Sunshine Coast heavy passenger rail. After nearly a decade in power, does
the Palaszczuk government care more about announcing infrastructure projects than building them?
Honourable members interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: Order, members! I will wait for the House to come to order.

Ms PALASZCZUK: Let me say to the member for Kawana that we are a big state and we have
the Big Build underway—the biggest build. In fact, I can even draw his attention to the budget papers.
If he looks at page 53, he will see there is the $89 billion Big Build. This is about delivering for our
state—the biggest build. Move over Forgan Smith; we have the biggest build the state has ever seen.
We know that this is a growing state. People are moving here and we have an enviable lifestyle. We
are investing in the M1, the Coomera Connecter, the Bruce Highway and our hospitals with the biggest
build ever. Let me say it again: the biggest build ever in our hospitals.

Mr Dick: $20 billion next year.

Ms PALASZCZUK: Then we have allocated $20 billion for next year alone to continue our supply
and keep people in work right across our state. We have shared investment from the federal
government to deliver our Olympic infrastructure. Not only that, we know that Queensland is growing
and we are making sure that we have the infrastructure that this great state needs. However, those
opposite have identified $10 billion in cuts.

Mr Powell interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: The member for Glass House will cease his interjections.

Ms PALASZCZUK: Where is that $10 billion in cuts going to come from? The Leader of the
Opposition—
Mrs Gerber interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: Pause the clock. Member for Currumbin, you are already under a warning. You
are interjecting. You can leave the chamber for one hour.

Whereupon the honourable member for Currumbin withdrew from the chamber at 10.41 am.

Mr SPEAKER: Members should be aware if you are under a warning you will cease all
interjections, otherwise you will face the same fate as the member for Currumbin. It is pretty clear.

Ms PALASZCZUK: There is also $14 million for the study for the Sunshine Coast rail connection.

Mr Mickelberg interjected.

Ms PALASZCZUK: That is right; it is called planning.

Mr SPEAKER: Member for Buderim.

Ms PALASZCZUK: That is right; we actually have a plan.

Mr Mickelberg interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: Pause the Clock. The member for Buderim is warned under the standing orders.
He will cease his interjections or he will leave the chamber.

Ms PALASZCZUK: Our government is investing $32 billion over the next four years for priority
transport and main roads infrastructure across our state. Every year the minister produces the QTRIP.
That actually outlines to all members our plan for the state. We will continue to invest in the infrastructure
that is needed for our growing communities, whether it is the brand new hospitals that are being built in
our growing communities or the expansion of our hospitals. We also recognise that Queenslanders are
doing it tough, and this budget firmly focuses on them with cost-of-living relief.

Ah, LOOK OVER HERE, another study.
This one for $14 million.
If they had've built it when they said they would - we wouldn't need yet another study.

QUEENSLAND - THE STUDY STATE