The 2025 State Budget has been unveiled, promising a “fresh start” for Queensland with a strong focus on health care, housing, infrastructure, and community safety. For the Whitsundays region, the government says the funding package delivers vital investment across key local services and industries.
Among the headline announcements is a major expansion of Mackay Hospital, with at least 128 new overnight beds slated to restore and improve access to health services. The government says this initiative forms part of its fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, aiming to address capacity issues across the state’s public hospitals.
The budget also delivers $44.1 million to expand and improve social and community housing across the Mackay Whitsundays, targeting one of the region’s most pressing needs—access to secure and affordable housing.
Tourism infrastructure has also received a boost. The Whitsunday Skyway project has been allocated $5 million, which Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm says will help drive local job creation and enhance tourism experiences in the region.
“This investment supports more local jobs for our region and delivers greater opportunities for visitors and residents alike,” she said.
The budget also includes a $44 million investment in energy infrastructure, aimed at improving reliability and safety for Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands through a new 66-kilovolt switchyard.
Premier David Crisafulli said the budget marks a new direction for Queensland.
“Today’s Budget delivers the fresh start Queensland needs and Queenslanders voted for,” he said.
“We are delivering to restore safety where you live, health services when you need them, a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, and a plan for Queensland’s future.
“This Budget delivers cost of living relief with the $100 Back to School Boost and the $200 Play On! Sports Vouchers Program, a fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan, a new nation-leading home ownership program to reduce the deposit gap, as well more police and early intervention to make Queensland safer.”
Other key cost of living initiatives include a $100 Back to School Boost and support for first-time homebuyers through a new home ownership program targeting the deposit gap.
Local Budget Highlights:
Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki and Premier David Crisafulli handed down the 2025 State Budget earlier this week promising a 'Fresh Start' for Queenslanders. photo supplied
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