The 2026–27 State Budget handed down yesterday by the LNP Government is a bitter
disappointment for Ipswich West residents and confirms what many in our community
already feared – Ipswich has been overlooked yet again.
Rather than investing in the future of our region, the LNP Government has taken money
away from the Mt Crosby Interchange project and failed to commit any new funding towards
the long-awaited Amberley Interchange. These are vital projects that our growing community
needs now, not years down the track.
On congestion and connectivity, the Budget offers little more than another study. While the
LNP Government has committed to supporting a business case for a Second River
Crossing, Labor had already gone much further by committing not only to the business case
but also to funding the construction of the Second River Crossing itself.
The LNP Government is also claiming credit for projects that were already announced and
planned under the former Labor Government.
The Budget highlights the Ipswich Hospital Expansion and the delivery of 200 additional
beds. However, this commitment was announced by the former Labor Government, which
recognised the urgent need to expand health services for our rapidly growing population.
Similarly, the LNP Government is promoting expanded parking at Ipswich Hospital. The
reality is that the former Labor Government had already announced and commenced
planning for a major seven-storey multi-deck car park at 50 South Street as part of the
broader $710 million Ipswich Hospital Stage 2 expansion.
Whilst I am happy to see a $50 increase for families across my electorate to the Back-to
School Boost, which now totals $150, it is only available to primary school-aged children,
leaving families with children at high schools without additional support and with money
going directly to schools, not to parents.
Also mentioned in the budget was the previously announced upgrade of the Marburg
Showgrounds to become an Elite Harness Training and Racing Centre and an upgrade of
the Rosewood Substation to improve network performance – announcements that I am
delighted to see funded.
Quotes attributable to Wendy Bourne MP, Member for Ipswich West
“As one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions, Ipswich deserves investment that matches
our growth. Instead, this Budget delivers no new funding for critical road infrastructure
projects that are essential to the future of this community.”
“Ipswich residents deserve more than recycled announcements and re-badged projects.
They deserve a government prepared to invest in the infrastructure, roads, health services
and transport solutions.”
“Overall, the 2026-27 State Budget represents a missed opportunity to deliver the
infrastructure Ipswich West needs and deserves.”
For media inquiries, please contact ipswich.west@parliament.qld.gov.au.
