Ipswich MP Jennifer Howard has used her Budget Reply speech to outline Labor’s priorities for Queensland, criticising the State Government’s budget for failing to fund major infrastructure projects while announcing new proposals aimed at improving housing affordability and supporting apprentices.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio, Ms Howard said Ipswich had again missed out on funding for several critical transport projects despite continued population growth.
“We were disappointed to see no funding for the big projects Ipswich needs so desperately,” Ms Howard said.
Among the projects she said had been overlooked were the Ripley Road and Swanbank Road interchanges, a second Bremer River crossing, the Ipswich to Springfield rail line and upgrades to the Centenary Highway.
Housing affordability remained the biggest issue facing her electorate, she said, with increasing numbers of residents seeking assistance through her office.
“Housing is one of the biggest issues that I’m dealing with, as I always say, in my office and affordability continues to be one of the biggest issues facing local families.”
To help shape future housing policy, Ms Howard is encouraging residents to take part in Labor’s Housing Affordability Survey, saying community members often have practical solutions to share.
“There are a lot of people out there who’ve got some really practical good ideas that can help get a roof over people’s heads.”
Support for apprentices and community safety
Among Labor’s Budget Reply commitments is a proposal to provide free vehicle registration for construction apprentices and their supervisors, which Ms Howard said could save eligible workers up to $2,360 over the life of an apprenticeship.
She said reducing costs for apprentices would help attract more tradespeople needed to build Queensland’s growing housing supply.
Ms Howard also outlined plans for an independent Community Safety Information Bureau, arguing Queenslanders deserved transparent and accurate crime data.
“We’re not getting a truthful and transparent representation of what’s going on out there,” she said.
The Opposition also announced a commitment to increase funding for multicultural community celebrations and festivals, saying Ipswich’s diverse community should continue to be recognised and celebrated.
“We really want to shine a light on all of the positive things that our multicultural community brings to us.”
NAIDOC celebrations praised
Ms Howard praised this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations in Ipswich, describing the event as one of the biggest she had attended.
“It was absolutely packed in there and it was so good,” she said.
“There was a really good atmosphere and it was wonderful chatting to Elders and the service providers doing great work every day.”
She said the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week made this year’s celebrations particularly significant.
Herbert Street bridge construction to begin
One of the more positive announcements for Ipswich was confirmation that construction of the permanent Herbert Street pedestrian bridge at Sadliers Crossing will begin in August.
The original 125-year-old bridge was demolished after being declared unsafe.
Ms Howard said she had repeatedly lobbied the State Government and Queensland Rail following the 2024 election to ensure the replacement project continued.
“I was absolutely over the moon to find out that Queensland Rail are finally going to begin this work,” she said.
She called on Queensland Rail to maintain clear communication with local residents throughout construction.
Arts, community grants and sport
Ms Howard also encouraged residents to support the SPARK Ipswich festival, which runs until 12 July, highlighting the importance of backing local artists and performers.
“There is just so much happening,” she said.
“It’s really our local arts community and entertainers on display.”
She welcomed recent Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants awarded to several Ipswich organisations, including Days for Girls Australia, the Ipswich 8 Ball Association, Jacaranda Street Community Preschool and Kindergarten Association, Swifts Hockey Club and the Queensland 8 Ball Federation.
“We know community clubs and volunteers play an absolutely vital role in keeping Ipswich connected,” Ms Howard said.
She also reaffirmed her support for a synthetic athletics track for Ipswich, saying the existing Bill Paterson Oval facility was no longer adequate.
“We need a new synthetic track and I am not going to give up until we get one,” she said.
Flu vaccinations and mobile office
With winter continuing, Ms Howard reminded residents that free influenza vaccinations remain available until 30 September, encouraging eligible Queenslanders to protect themselves ahead of the peak flu season.
She also announced her next mobile electorate office will be held at Booval Fair Shopping Centre on Saturday, 11 July, from 9am to 11am, giving residents the opportunity to discuss local issues and seek assistance directly.
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