Australian Industry Group has welcomed the Queensland Budget as a stable and sensible financial plan that recognises the need to manage the state’s debt while continuing to invest in essential infrastructure, housing and services.
Michelle Farquhar, Head of Queensland for Australian Industry Group, said the Budget struck a measured tone at a time when Queensland businesses are looking for fiscal discipline, practical investment and clearer pathways to delivery.
“This is a stable, sensible Budget with a clear eye on managing Queensland’s debt position,” Ms Farquhar said.
“For industry, that matters. Businesses need confidence that public finances are being managed responsibly, while also seeing investment directed to the infrastructure and services that keep the economy moving.
“It is positive to see Queensland's future debt path move lower as a result of stronger spending control in this budget. But debt is still forecast to grow to over $200 billion by the end of the decade, with no peak yet in sight. The Queensland Government must continue to show strong fiscal discipline to continue bringing the debt path down, particularly in light of the spending commitment required to deliver the Olympics."
The Budget includes significant capital investment, with a strong focus on transport infrastructure. It commits $56 billion for transport in southeast Queensland over four years, alongside $1 billion to address the backlog of maintenance on regional and western Queensland roads.
“Queensland’s regions are the engine room of our economy, and safe, reliable roads are critical to productivity, freight movement, workforce mobility and community resilience,” Ms Farquhar said.
“The Treasurer was proud to note the state’s productivity is nation leading at 1.4%, but there is still a long way to go to make sure the economy can grow and diversify. The foundations of transport, housing, energy, water and digital connectivity are fundamental, and policy settings for the mining sector are key to securing investment.
“This includes having an indication on the timing for the western leg of CopperString, to help industry build an investment case to unlock the potential of critical minerals.”
Australian Industry Group also noted the Budget’s substantial investment in social housing, including $5.7 billion over four years to support the delivery of new social and community homes.
Ms Farquhar said the key test for the Budget would be whether Queensland has the workforce and delivery capacity needed to turn commitments into outcomes.
“The big question is workforce,” Ms Farquhar said.
“Queensland has an ambitious infrastructure and housing pipeline, but delivery will depend on having enough skilled people, contractors, trades and project capability. Government and industry will need to work closely together to make sure skills, training and procurement settings support delivery across the State.
It is positive to see Queensland's future debt path move lower as a result of stronger spending control in this budget. But debt is still forecast to grow to over $200 billion by the end of the decade, with no peak yet in sight. The Queensland government must continue to show strong fiscal discipline to continue bringing the debt path down, particularly in light of the spending commitment required to deliver the Olympics
“A responsible Budget is the starting point. The next task is execution — ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, businesses can participate in the pipeline, and Queensland builds the workforce it needs for long-term growth,” Ms Farquhar said.
Media contact: Michelle Farquhar (0432) 334 994
