In response to last night's Federal Budget from the Albanese Federal Government, Rockhampton Regional Council has one question.
"Where is the Ring Road Project?," Mayor Williams asked.
"In three months' time, our region should have been starting a $1billion plus infrastructure project which would change our community forever, bring almost 800 jobs to the region and see flow on benefits worth tens of millions into our local economy.
"Anthony Albanese committed to the project in 2019.
"Labor Senator Nita Green told ABC Capricornia it was in the Budget this morning.
"The billion dollar question is where is it and when do they intend to start? If they are committed to the Rockhampton Region, as they say they say are, then it is well and truly time to put a concrete construction timeline on the Ring Road for us.
"Council intends to write to Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King this week seeking a meeting to get those details as well as write to State Transport Minister Mark Bailey to clarify whether the state is content to leave Rockhampton in limbo.
"Let's not forget, a Rockhampton Ring Road benefits our entire state's transport industry by improving freight and connectivity times.
"This morning I have also asked for a Special Council meeting this Friday to discuss the matter further with my colleagues.
"Not to mince words, it is the Federal Government's responsibility, it is their obligation, to explain to the people of Rockhampton what their plan is because we need action and we need it now," Mayor Williams said.
While Council continues to work through the Budget papers, we note that election commitments made during the campaign including $3.5 million for the Mount Morgan Pipeline and $200 million for the Bruce Highway between Rockhampton to Gladstone have been honoured.
