The federal government has rejected allegations that it is neglecting crucial infrastructure developments in Queensland. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie expressed concerns after a draft list indicated a potential reduction of nearly 30 proposed projects for federal funding to just seven. Bleijie criticized this decision, stating it was incomprehensible for the federal Labor government to remove priority projects. Key projects affected include future extensions of the Sunshine Coast rail line and the Mooloolah River Interchange, which local leaders, such as Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, deem essential for future mobility. Natoli highlighted existing traffic and public transport deficiencies, stressing the need for improved systems. While 9News suggests some projects, like M1 upgrades, are being dropped due to already secured funding, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers labelled Bleijie’s remarks as “ridiculous,” pointing to substantial investments in Queensland that total approximately $28 billion. Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King noted that the priority list is still under review and invited the Queensland government to propose additional projects for consideration. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Steven Miles defended the federal government’s position, emphasising that Infrastructure Australia operates independently of the federal government and that budget documents are the appropriate source to understand priorities.
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