A massive $6.7 billion in cost blowouts have been revealed across Queensland’s road and transport projects, exposing years of budget mismanagement under the former Labor Government. The staggering figure, confirmed by the new Crisafulli Government, applies to the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) and includes previously undisclosed cost overruns across key infrastructure initiatives.
Dylan Anderson
The Real Cost of Delays and Mismanagement
According to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, every single project within QTRIP ran over budget during Labor’s term, without public disclosure.
“It’s important for Queenslanders to know the true cost of Labor’s failures, and we are laying it bare for all to see as we forge a path forward,” Minister Mickelberg said.
One project in the Mackay region alone is estimated to be more than $1 billion over budget. In total, the QTRIP budget blowout spans roads, rail, maritime, public transport, and active transport infrastructure, covering both freight and commuter routes. Nineteen projects remain under commercial negotiation, further complicating accurate forecasting.
Dylan Anderson
Transparency and Reform Promised
Minister Mickelberg said the new government is committed to restoring respect for taxpayers’ money and delivering transparency.
“The full QTRIP is estimated to cost an additional $6.7 billion to complete, which Labor failed to disclose before the election,” he said.
“If you want another example of Labor’s neglect, incompetence and deceit, here it is.”
To address the spiralling costs, the Crisafulli Government is pausing what it calls Labor’s “CFMEU Tax,” claiming it inflated project costs and reduced productivity across the state.
Moving Forward: New Strategy for Delivery
The government has outlined a multi-pronged strategy to regain control of project delivery:
- Improve business case estimates and risk assessments
- Enhance accuracy in project design
- Engage early with industry to foster collaboration
“I have a clear focus to deliver projects on time and on budget,” said Minister Mickelberg.
In addition, the government has already negotiated 80:20 funding with the Federal Government for a $9 billion joint investment into Bruce Highway safety upgrades—aimed at ensuring Queensland gets its fair share of national infrastructure funding.
Dylan Anderson
Accountability for the Future
With Queenslanders facing mounting cost-of-living pressures, the government says infrastructure mismanagement can no longer be tolerated.
“The Crisafulli Government will continue to be transparent,” Minister Mickelberg stated. “Labor was not transparent. They blew their budget by billions, and it’s costing every Queenslander.”
The new administration insists it is committed to delivering the transport infrastructure needed to support a growing population, reduce congestion, and improve safety—while doing so within the budget.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
