The Gillard Labor Government has fulfilled yet another pre-election infrastructure pledge, with the 2011-12 Budget allocating $54 million to fixing the increasingly congested and hazardous Blacksoil Interchange near Ipswich.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said Labor was determined to put in place a solution not just for the next three years but for the coming decades.

“Rebuilding this critical intersection between the Warrego and Brisbane Valley Highways is part of our broader efforts to make sure Queensland takes advantage of the next resources boom, particularly with the opening up of the Surat Basin gathering pace,” said Mr Albanese.

“The fact work will now start of this project within the next 12 month is a tribute to the strong and persistent representations from local MP Shayne Neumann. In just over three years, Shayne has earned a reputation in Canberra as a fierce advocate for his local community.”

In addition to the $54 million in Federal funding which will come from the new Regional Infrastructure Fund, the Bligh Labor Government has indicated it’s willing to contribute a further $16 million to getting the job done.

Blair MP Shayne Neumann said he’s proud to be part of a Government which delivers on its infrastructure promises.

“I am pleased that despite the tight budgetary circumstances the Gillard Labor Government hasn’t sacrificed the long term investments vital to making our economy more productive and our region more prosperous such as the upgrade of the Blacksoil Interchange,” said Mr Neumann.

“Confirmation the funding is in this year’s Budget is a major victory for the local community and their long running campaign for real action – but it’s only the latest example of Federal Labor delivering for Ipswich and surrounding communities.

“In addition to work starting on the Blacksoil Interchange, major construction activities will continue along the Ipswich Motorway, with a further $155 million contained in the 2011-12 Budget to progress the upgrade and widen of the road between Dinmore and Goodna.”

All up, the Gillard Labor Government is investing a record $8.5 billion as part of our Nation Building Program (2008-09 to 2013-14) to renew and expand the State’s road, rail and public transport infrastructure – more than twice what the former Howard Government spent over a similar period of time.