From Hospitals To Highways

Mackay’s Budget Blueprint

This year’s State Budget has landed, and it brings with it a wave of good news for Mackay.

The Crisafulli Government has delivered real funding, real projects, and a real plan to restore trust in the system—especially here in Mackay.

The budget rests on four key pillars: delivering safety, boosting health services, improving lifestyle through a stronger economy, and planning for Queensland’s future. Across each of these, Mackay is seeing major investment.

On safety, $9.3 million has been committed to upgrade the Mackay police facility, with a further $40 million in statewide grants for small businesses and councils to improve community safety in public and commercial areas. An additional $50 million will fund a new Victims Advocate Service to support crime victims through the justice process.

Healthcare is another major winner. Mackay Base Hospital will be expanded with at least 128 new overnight beds, while the local health workforce will grow to 2,995 full-time staff thanks to increased funding in 2025–26. Mental health services will benefit from an $18.5 million refurbishment of Mackay Community Mental Health, delivering modern clinical and therapy spaces. Additional car parking for patients, carers, visitors and staff will also be delivered under the Hospital Rescue Plan—addressing a long-standing local need.

On housing, $44.1 million will expand and improve social and community housing across the Mackay Whitsundays, with 110 homes already underway. Local organisations are also being backed, with $5.2 million to redevelop St Vincent de Paul’s support centre, and $1 million to help the Australian Street Aid Project (Chances Mackay) continue feeding and supporting people experiencing homelessness.

Infrastructure upgrades will enhance community life. Alongside the $9 billion Bruce Highway investment, Mackay–Bucasia Road will be upgraded for safer, faster travel. The Great Barrier Reef Arena at Harrup Park will receive $23.5 million preparing for 2032 Olympic cricket. North Saints AFL will be allocated $450,000 to replace lighting at Zeolla Park. Mackay Hockey Association will receive $800,000 to build an indoor hall. Mackay Netball Association will be granted $1.6 million for shade structures and other upgrades, and Mackay Musical Comedy Players will be awarded $250,000 for a new rehearsal space.

Education also benefits, with $70.68 million boosting local schools: Mackay State High will refurbish its hall and add air-conditioning, while Mackay North State High will receive a new tuckshop.

This budget shows Mackay is a priority. It promises purposeful investment—and restores confidence that our region’s voice will be heard.

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Nigel Dalton MP in Queensland Parliament House for the 2025-26 State Budget

Nigel Dalton MP with Shelly Walsh from Mackay Netball Association reviewing the new shading plan, funded through the state budget

Nigel Dalton MP with the new state budget papers—hot off the press and ready to deliver for Mackay

Nigel Dalton MP maps out the location for a new rehearsal stage with the Mackay Comedy Players, supporting the growth of local theatre

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