Urgent Call for Infrastructure Funding
In a decisive move, Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell joined forces with 11 southeast Queensland mayors at Queensland Parliament to demand increased infrastructure funding.
This urgent call aims to address the challenges posed by rapid population growth and the ongoing housing crisis.
Mayor Mitchell emphasised that local councils, which manage about one-third of public assets while collecting a mere three per cent of total government taxes, require more substantial support from both state and federal governments.
Rising Population and Housing Demands
ShapingSEQ 2023 forecasts a significant increase in Redland City’s population, projecting it to reach 211,500 by 2046. This surge necessitates the addition of nearly 19,800 dwellings, marking a nearly one-third rise in current housing.
Mayor Mitchell stressed that this demographic boom demands corresponding state infrastructure projects to sustain growth. She highlighted the Southern Thornlands Growth Area as a focal point, requiring substantial state investment to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with development.
Critical Infrastructure Projects
The mayor pointed out the necessity of advancing regional infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity and support commuting for employment, social, and health services.
Key projects include the Brisbane Metro network extension, state road network upgrades, and the establishment of high-frequency public transport connections from Redland City to Logan Hyperdome.
These improvements promise to significantly enhance public transport efficiency and meet growing community needs.
Advocacy for Island Communities
Mayor Mitchell also addressed the unique challenges faced by Redland Coast islands, likening them to “country towns in the water” due to their isolation and limited resources.
Despite facing significant social disadvantages, these islands are ineligible for regional funding because Redland City is classified as part of metropolitan Brisbane.
The mayor advocates for regional status recognition to unlock essential planning and infrastructure upgrades for these island communities.
A Collaborative Future
The mayor expressed appreciation for the state’s $15 million commitment to the Weinam Creek car park and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to improve transport solutions and address parking issues.
She remains committed to ongoing advocacy, seeking further discussions with ministers to secure the necessary support and funding to meet Redland City’s evolving infrastructure needs.
