Fifteen resources communities in Queensland will share in just over $47 million through the first round of projects from the $100 million Resources Community Infrastructure Fund (RCIF).
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said 20 projects will give 15 communities improved and additional local facilities for sport, recreation, social and mental health support, affordable housing, disability accommodation, education, healthcare and transport.
“It’s a diverse range of projects to meet the diverse needs of resources communities across the state.”
The RCIF was created to improve economic and social infrastructure in resources communities in order to enhance wellbeing and access to services, support jobs and boost the economy as part of Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
“Despite the challenges COVID-19 has brought, our resources sector has been able to continue operating throughout the pandemic, helping support our economy.”
Minister for Resources Scott Stewart said the Fund is a voluntary partnership between the Queensland Government, resource companies, and the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).
“The government has partnered with resource companies to see investments in the communities that support them,” Mr Stewart said.
“These communities are critical to rebuilding Queensland’s economy. And these new community infrastructure projects will create more jobs and more opportunities for regional Queenslanders.
“Not only will the 20 projects support even better facilities for their regions, they will also create more employment, creating an estimated 186 jobs for Queenslanders during construction.
“Projects will be delivered by councils and not-for-profit organisations providing tangible benefits for the community, including the resources sector workers and their families who live there.
Chair of the expert Advisory Committee Tony Mooney said the committee really made sure the needs of resource communities were put first.
“Whether it’s a new public swimming pool, better places to play and watch sport or additional community support facilities, the committee wanted to properly consider the social and economic impact being made through this funding” Mr Mooney said.
“We are so glad that this has come to fruition and look forward to seeing these projects being delivered in their communities.”
All projects funded under RCIF Round 1 aim to improve economic and social infrastructure in our resource communities, to enhance wellbeing and access to services and to generate jobs.
RCIF was established by a voluntary partnership between coal and mineral companies, the Queensland Resources Council and the Queensland Government.
The Queensland Government has committed $30 million to the Fund with participating Queensland resources companies contributing the remaining $70 million.
