Future-proofing infrastructure to better serve growing communities

Published on 26 June 2024

Infrastructure and services to support the long-term viability and prosperity of the Isaac region remains on Council’s agenda for the next four years.

Housing, childcare, health, education, and future-proofing facilities may not be core business for local governments, but Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said in regional communities it is often councils that play a catalyst role in supporting grassroot needs.

“All Isaac communities deserve to thrive and by future-proofing community infrastructure it protects and fosters their sustainability,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

“We know that housing, childcare and education are not council’s responsibility, but as the closest level of government to our communities, we need to do our bit to help hardworking families.

“Council works hard to speak up for everyone who lives here, to make sure we advocate to the Australian and Queensland Governments to ensure we get the funds we need to future-proof our communities.”

Childcare and housing: For many years, Council has supported childcare centres by providing significantly reduced leases to ensure residents can access these critical services. Council continues to contribute to the maintenance and upgrades through the Isaac Affordable Housing Trust which caters to house essential workers in Clermont, Dysart, Nebo and Moranbah during cost-of-living pressures.

Education: Council advocated and received a $2 million investment into the Isaac Country Universities Centre from the Queensland Government last month as access to higher education for regional areas proves challenging.  In Council’s 2024-25 Budget, fit outs in Clermont and Moranbah for the regional university study hubs will begin.

Future-proofing facilities: Stage 1 of the Nebo Showgrounds Master Plan is planned to be delivered over the next two years with $1.7 million in Australian Government funding to be invested in the 2025 financial year. This includes primary infrastructure upgrades, heavy vehicle access, general camping upgrades and car parking improvements.

Planning works continue on the $42 million Isaac Resources Centre of Excellence Precinct. The aim is to develop a more skilled and diversified workforce in the heart of the Bowen Basin. Funding agreement has been signed by Australian and Queensland Governments and will see the project delivered over the next three years.

ENDS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT

Isaac Regional Council - Brand, Media and Communications Team on:          4846 3550