In her Budget speech, the Member for Ipswich West, Wendy Bourne MP, has condemned the LNP State Government for its failure to start key infrastructure projects.
Speaking in Parliament, Ms Bourne highlighted the ongoing confusion and finger-pointing over many projects within her electorate.
“Take the Second River Crossing” Ms Bourne said “In May, the Minister claimed the Council already had the funds to start the project. But now, in the Council’s own budget submission, they’re asking the State to urgently commence the detailed business case. So who has the money? Who’s telling the truth?” she said.
According to the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP), only $500,000 will be spent on the project in the 25-26 financial year, with the remaining $3.5 million not scheduled until post 2025–26—raising further doubts about the government’s commitment to the project.
“This is a government that promised transparency—but we’re getting the exact opposite”.
The Ipswich MP also expressed deep frustration over the lack of progress on other vital infrastructure projects, including the Mount Crosby Road Interchange and the Bremer River Bridge.
“These projects are not optional. They are critical to the safety, connectivity, and future growth of our community. Yet they’ve either disappeared from the budget or been pushed years down the track.”
Previously costed under the former government, the Mount Crosby Interchange has now been delayed to 2027–28 and reclassified as “subject to further project development,” with no clear explanation.
“I wasn’t a member in the former government,” Ms Bourne said. “This is my first budget as the elected representative for Ipswich West, and I’m focused on the future. But every time I raise these issues, this government points fingers backwards. That’s not good enough for our community.”
Despite repeated representations to the Minister for Transport and the consistent advocacy in Parliament, Ms Bourne said the government continues to ignore the urgent needs of Ipswich West.
“Words and press releases don’t build bridges—investment does. The people of Ipswich West deserve straight answers and real action, not political blame games.”
