Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick said the additional federal funds meant the project cost increases for stage one – $864 million – would be met 50:50 by federal and state governments.
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“The Gold Coast is one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia, and it is just so important that we continue to not just invest – but deliver – in infrastructure,” Dick said.
He said it was “great example of a partnership” with the federal government that “will continue to deliver benefits in the future”.
Chalmers said project cost increases were a “reality of the times” as questions were asked about cost over-runs on future Queensland infrastructure projects, including the Gold Coast light rail.
“The LNP committed to the project years ago and remain the only ones who will deliver Sunshine Coast Heavy Passenger Rail to Maroochydore. The LNP’s commitment will see the project delivered the full length to Maroochydore via Beerwah, Caloundra and Kawana.”
Dick said the LNP planned to use money Labor was investing for future stages of the Gold Coast light rail, to extend the Sunshine Coast line from Caloundra to Maroochydore.
“That is a $6.6 billion black hole he has to deliver that project to Maroochydore by the Olympics. So it is no wonder they are doing a review of the light rail here on the Gold Coast.”
The LNP has been contacted for comment.
Source Agencies
