Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Human Services) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Sterle, these are major projects that will be able to transform entire communities in Queensland and in Western Australia—for example, the upgrade to the intersection of the Bruce and Capricornia highways in Queensland. That will be a project that will reduce congestion and travel times around Rockhampton, the Stanwell industrial corridor, the Port of Gladstone and the mining areas around Emerald. And the $120 million investment in the Peak Downs Highway will enhance the productivity of mining operations in the Bowen and Galilee basins.

Senator Ian Macdonald interjecting—

Senator Macdonald, I would have thought that, as a Queenslander, you would have supported these measures. But you are not. Your hypocrisy is becoming quite clear. If we look at Western Australia, Senator Sterle, $480 million will go to Gateway Western Australia, Perth Airport and the freight access project. It will reduce traffic congestion and freight costs and will improve safety for workers at the same time. (Time expired)