IT sounds like a cliche, but it’s very true that Logan is seeing unprecedented growth.
There are stories in today’s paper about short land supply, such is the rapid uptake of existing land in the region.
With growth comes an urgent need for infrastructure.
Today (Tuesday) is state government budget day, and we have the treasurer in our backyard.
Member for Woodridge Cameron Dick knows all too well the challenges facing Logan during a phase of growth.
The demographics of the region will no doubt change as population continues to rise. Housing prices are going up like never before, but there remains a core support network borne of resilience and compassion.
The needs of the region won’t be sexy – no immediate need for huge stadiums or flashy movie sets here, although they’d be welcomed with open arms.
There is however, a need for good public transport, a solid and safe road network, a platform for jobs and enough support service to ensure the disadvantaged are not left behind by progress.
Granted, much of this is a multi-tiered responsibility across local, state and federal governments. But this budget is a chance for the state to lead the way when it comes to economic recovery.
Ahead of today’s detail, the government is promising $460 million to help boost job skills, training, and an assistance program for businesses to hire the unemployed.
Let’s hope there’s a bone which brings much-needed infrastructure to the area in order to support growth.
Big statements and big numbers don’t mean a lot if governments are unable to reveal the granular disbursement of funds – ie, where the money will land, and to whose benefit.
Leave a Reply