Shayne Neumann MP takes aim at "We Can't Wait" Campaign

Story:

West Bremer Radio recently delved into the “We Can’t Wait Campaign,” a new initiative launched by Ipswich City Council and Mayor Teresa Harding. The campaign calls for urgent federal and state government support to address local infrastructure needs. Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, shared his perspectives on the campaign during an interview.

Neumann expressed surprise at the campaign’s confrontational approach, comparing it to Winston Churchill’s preference for negotiation over conflict. He criticised the Ipswich City Council for not collaborating with the federal and state governments, pointing out that no council candidates had pledged to oppose higher government levels if elected.

Neumann highlighted significant investments by both the federal and state governments in the Ipswich community, including $20 million for the North Ipswich Reserve upgrade and $3.4 million for the Ipswich to Springfield Rail Line. He noted the lack of business cases from the council for these projects, implying a delay in progress. Additionally, $134.5 million was allocated for the Mount Crosby interchange upgrade and $42.5 million for the Bremer River bridge upgrade, demonstrating substantial governmental support for local infrastructure.

Despite these efforts, Neumann criticized the council for not presenting necessary project plans and business cases. He suggested that the council should be more proactive and prepared if they seek additional funding. Neumann also emphasised that the federal and state governments have been willing partners, funding numerous projects to benefit Ipswich.

The timing of the campaign launch, coinciding with the LNP State Council, was seen by Neuman as politically motivated, aiming to shift blame for local issues onto higher government levels. He called for more cooperative and constructive engagement from the council, stressing the need for unity among all government levels to address Ipswich’s growing population and infrastructure demands.

Neuman concluded with a call for improved collaboration, expressing his desire to see critical projects, such as the Springfield to Ipswich rail link and the North Ipswich Reserve upgrades, come to fruition through joint efforts of all government levels.