Facing a significant shortfall in state and federal infrastructure funding, Ipswich City Council will introduce a dedicated infrastructure levy in its 2025–2026 Budget to help cover a projected $1 billion gap over the next decade.
Mayor Teresa Harding announced the move, saying the council had “no option” but to act as the city prepares to double in population to over 533,000 residents by 2046.
“Despite raising the alarm with both the Australian and Queensland governments for years, there’s been no change,” Mayor Harding said. “This levy is a responsible step to ensure Ipswich can meet the demands of rapid growth.”
Under the proposal, 99% of ratepayers will pay $55 annually, with those on higher-value land contributing more. The levy is expected to generate $5.4 million in 2025–2026, supporting major strategic infrastructure projects such as roads, open spaces, and essential service networks.
⚠️ Chronic Underfunding
Mayor Harding highlighted stark inequalities in state infrastructure investment. For example, Ipswich received just $198 million in the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (2025–2028) — significantly less than Brisbane ($3 billion) and Logan ($1 billion).
“On a per-resident basis, Ipswich received only $847, compared to Logan’s $3,087,” she said. “This is one of the lowest in south-east Queensland.”
The situation is further strained by state-capped developer infrastructure charges, which haven’t kept up with rising construction costs — leaving councils unable to recoup the real costs of growth.
🏗️ What the Levy Will Fund
Finance and Governance Chairperson Councillor Paul Tully said the new levy would not cover full project costs, but will be used strategically to complement developer charges, grants, and council funds.
“It will support the delivery of infrastructure identified in the Local Government Infrastructure Plan, including major roads, intersections, and open space upgrades,” Cr Tully said.
Ipswich will join five other south-east Queensland councils that already apply dedicated transport or infrastructure levies, ranging between $30 and $210 per rateable property.
💬 Transparency and Accountability
Cr Tully assured residents that the new levy would be clearly reported and tied to specific projects, much like the successful Enviroplan Levy introduced in 1996.
“We know this is a difficult decision, especially during a cost-of-living crisis, but the community deserves to see where this money goes and how it will support Ipswich’s future,” he said.
The 2025–26 Ipswich City Council Budget will be officially handed down on 1 July 2025.
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