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CopperString delivers legacy benefits for North Queensland
The Queensland Government’s Budget will deliver $30 million for community infrastructure projects along the CopperString corridor.
The funding – delivered through Powerlink's Community Legacy Framework – will support local projects including community infrastructure, housing and accommodation as well as economic and workforce development.
The Queensland Government has saved the biggest energy project in North Queensland's history and has locked in a record $2.4 billion for the CopperString project in the Budget.
In Townsville today, Premier David Crisafulli announced the rollout of funding would commence soon and target projects with lasting community benefits.
"We are backing the future of CopperString, and we are backing the future of communities in north and northwest Queensland," Premier Crisafulli said.
"This investment is about unlocking more opportunity, attracting further investment and supporting the future of regional Queensland towns."
Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki reaffirmed the Queensland Government's commitment to ensure CopperString delivers for North and North West Queensland.
"The Queensland Government has saved CopperString to deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable energy and benefits to North Queensland for generations to come," Mr Janetzki said.
"The legacy fund is a significant milestone and is a strong signal to communities, industry and the region that we are delivering CopperString.
"Workers will start to call Hughenden home as Powerlink commences work on the Hughenden Hub later this year, pending approvals.
"For the first time, real funding will flow for CopperString in this Budget with a $2.4 billion investment – an increase of $1.4 billion on last year's Budget.
"This funding allows Powerlink to get on with delivering the Eastern Link while QIC assesses the best way to realise the economic potential of the Western Link and activate private sector investment for project."
The investments will follow an evaluation process through the Regional Reference Group and the Office of the Coordinator-General to ensure they reflect the priorities of regional communities.
Powerlink will continue to meet with key stakeholders including local mayors, industry bodies and Traditional Owners to deliver lasting benefits to communities along the corridor.