In the lead-up to the first Crisafulli Government budget as the Premier of Queensland, Townsville Enterprise and regional Mayors from the North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NQROC) have this week completed a delegation to Brisbane to advocate for critical policies, infrastructure investments, and projects that will drive future economic growth and prosperity for North Queensland.
With North Queensland contributing over $22 billion annually to the state’s economy, the delegation reinforced the need for significant investment in enabling infrastructure to sustain and accelerate this growth. High-priority projects presented included the full delivery of the CopperString transmission project, urgent housing investment to address shortages, a new Townsville Entertainment Arena, Port of Townsville expansion, and transformative tourism infrastructure projects that will unlock new visitor markets and enhance liveability.
Townsville Enterprise CEO, Claudia Brumme-Smith, said that the upcoming budget is critical in ensuring the region’s continued economic momentum.
“We are one of the most productive regions in the country, with just 240,000 people generating over $22 billion in Gross Regional Product every year. Investment in North Queensland not only strengthens local industries but delivers significant returns to Treasury. We need to see this reflected in the state budget in a few weeks,” said Ms Brumme-Smith.
“We’ve had a positive reception from all sides of politics this week, and we look forward to seeing this strong engagement translate into real investment outcomes for our region.”
“This region is leading the way in sovereign manufacturing, renewable energy, critical minerals processing, and health innovation. We continue to be a powerhouse in mining, agriculture, and advanced manufacturing—producing and exporting the goods that generate wealth for the entire state. However, without sustained investment in roads, ports, hospitals, and industry-enabling infrastructure, we risk slowing our growth and missing significant opportunities.”
“Investing in North Queensland is the smart decision—it’s where the government’s money will generate the highest return for Queensland’s future.”
NQROC Chair and Mayor of Charters Towers Cr Liz Schmidt echoed the call for action, reinforcing the importance of regional investment to unlock economic opportunities and enhance liveability.
“Our councils are working hard to build resilient communities and drive regional development, but we can’t do it alone. We need the state government to step up and deliver the infrastructure and funding required to support our growing populations and economy,” said Cr Schmidt.
“Key investments in transport, water security, housing, and tourism infrastructure will not only create jobs but ensure our communities remain vibrant and sustainable for generations to come.”
Townsville Acting Mayor Cr Ann-Maree Greaney said the delegation was the perfect opportunity to put the region front and centre of the Government’s mind ahead of budget deliberations.
“We work throughout the year with Townsville Enterprise to ensure our city and region has a strong and united voice when it comes to advocacy and this delegation is no different,” Cr Greaney said.
“For Townsville our priorities are clear and have been at the forefront of our conversations with Government for well over a year, these include the Townsville Entertainment Arena, the rail corridor and port expansion.”
The delegation’s priorities align with the broader vision for Townsville North Queensland—to be a leading economic powerhouse that attracts investment, grows industries, and enhances the quality of life for residents. With the state budget approaching, the region’s leaders remain firm in their advocacy to secure the necessary commitments to make this vision a reality.
