The Palaszczuk Government today announced that it is injecting $10 million into the economy to deliver jobs and priority environmental projects in Great Barrier Reef catchments.
This funding is on top of the extension of a further $10 million for the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative to increase Work Skills Traineeships in construction or conservation and land management.
Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Leeanne Enoch said the Reef Assist Jobs program will deliver on the ground projects in partnership with local governments, natural resource management bodies, land management and conservation groups.
These projects could include streambank rehabilitation, planting trees, pest and weed control, and landscaping.
“As we face the global impact of COVID-19, our government recognises the potential for environmental projects to assist in kick starting our plan for economic recovery in Queensland,” Minister Enoch said.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s aim is to support jobs and this $10 million Reef Assist program will provide employment and new skill development, helping Queenslanders get back into work.
“This cash injection will not only support jobs and boost regional economies, it will also deliver positive environmental outcomes.
“It is estimated this jobs plan will support up to 200 employment opportunities, a great initiative for communities in Northern Queensland and another positive sign that our state is well and truly on the road to recovery post COVID-19.”
Minister Enoch said the Reef Assist program will support a number of Northern Queensland communities to recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
“This is about investing in a land management program which will provide socially and environmentally beneficial work, and support the Palaszczuk Government’s plan for economic recovery.”
