Morrison Government invests $190 million in transport infrastructure to boost NT economic recovery

The Northern Territory economy will be boosted, roads will be safer and thousands of jobs created, with a $190 million investment into transport infrastructure from the Federal Coalition as part of our COVID-19 economic recovery plan.

The latest funding injection builds on a series of territory-wide infrastructure investments from the Commonwealth in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic which now total more than $240 million.

Key investments for the Northern Territory include $120 million to upgrade the Carpentaria Highway and $47 million for National Network Highway Upgrades.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Tuesday’s Federal Budget would deliver funding for infrastructure which supports the Government’s JobMaker plan and help the Northern Territory recover from COVID-19.

“We have been working closely with state and territory governments to invest in the infrastructure that is ready to go and can help rebuild our economy and create more jobs,” the Prime Minister said.

“These projects will keep commuters safe on the road, get people home to their loved ones sooner and provide better transport links for urban and regional communities.”

“As part of the COVID-19 economic recovery plan we have invested an additional $240 million focused on shovel-ready projects across the Northern Territory.

“This latest investment will provide another boost to the local economy by supporting an estimated 1,050 direct and indirect jobs across the territory.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Government is focused on delivering priorities and boosting local jobs as part of Australia’s road to recovery.

“We will draw on local businesses to stimulate local economies through these projects,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“Infrastructure means jobs, it means livelihoods, it means stronger local communities and it means building a better and more secure future for our nation.”

Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the Government is driving the delivery of major infrastructure projects to map the economic road back from the pandemic, building the economy and providing certainty for business over the long term.

“Key investments across the Territory include $120 million for upgrades to the Carpentaria Highway and $23 million to upgrade the Stuart Highway at Coolalinga,” Minister Tudge said.

“The Australian Government will continue to invest in the Territory economy in the coming years, including through new commitments such as $47 million for priority upgrades to the national highway network.”

Senator for the Northern Territory Sam McMahon said these investments will deliver on the Government’s economic plan for a stronger and more resilient Australia, boosting the economy, meeting our national freight challenge and getting Australians home sooner and safer.

“The Government’s commitment to infrastructure of critical importance continues across the Territory, supporting local jobs and businesses at the time it is needed most,” Senator McMahon said.

Since being elected in 2013 the Liberal and Nationals Government has committed more than $2.7 billion for infrastructure in the Northern Territory.

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