First Nations councils call for road funding boost
Published on 28 April 2026
First Nations councils are warning easy access in and out of their communities could be at risk unless a permanent road funding boost is delivered in the June State Budget.
They’ve joined the peak body for Queensland councils, the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) in calling for a permanent increase to the budget of the Transport and Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS).
The critical funding program supports the local transport infrastructure needs of communities across Queensland.
The LGAQ is calling for TIDS funding to be boosted from almost $76 million to $100 million a year in the State Budget, which includes a specific allocation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander TIDS funding each year dedicated to the upgrade of transport infrastructure that improves primary access (road, air and sea) for Queensland First Nations communities.
LGAQ President Mayor Matt Burnett said ageing infrastructure in First Nations communities is posing an ongoing risk to community safety and connectivity.
“Queensland’s First Nations communities are in some of the state’s most remote locations, often with limited access in and out during the wet season,” Mayor Burnett said.
“We need a long-term funding commitment to allow these councils to work in genuine partnership with the State to build safer, more resilient road networks and assets.
“First Nations Queenslanders need reliable access to their communities and we're calling on the State Government to ensure proper funding for the infrastructure they need.
“Well-maintained roads are essential to keeping First Nation’s communities connected, improving access to critical services and maintaining connection during natural disasters.”
LGAQ CEO Alison Smith said along with improved safety and reliability, increased road infrastructure funding will deliver stronger connections between regional centres, businesses and essential services.
Ms Smith said that while councils welcomed the State’s commitment of $75.95 million in TIDS funding through to 2027–28, more funding was needed to ensure critical infrastructure upgrades could continue.
“TIDS plays a vital role in supporting pavement rehabilitation and widening, new and upgraded pathways, the progressive sealing of unsealed roads, and targeted safety improvements across the state,” she said.
“The projects delivered through TIDS improve access and reliability for agricultural producers, freight operators and regional industries by strengthening links to markets, processing facilities and transport hubs.
“Just as importantly, they improve everyday connectivity for local communities, supporting economic activity and safer travel for all Queenslanders.”
Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby
“These projects deliver safer access, smoother travel and healthier living conditions for our communities. Reliable roads connect residents to schools, health services and shops, and mean people no longer have to walk or drive through heavily damaged roads filled with potholes and mud during the wet season. They also ensure freight and essential supplies can reach our islands more efficiently and safely.
Our region is unique, and with that comes unique challenges. We rely on grant funding to deliver vital infrastructure that is permanent and fit for purpose. A fair increase to our road funding is essential if Torres Strait communities are to thrive.”
Deputy Mayor of Aurukun Shire Council Craig Koomeeta
"Cyclones, severe weather events and the prolonged wet season all have significant impact on our roads. We have one road in and out of Aurukun – and upgrades are essential to reduce non-access period during the wet season. Ahead of the State Budget in June – we are joining councils in calling for this vital infrastructure funding program to be boosted."
"Roads are vital for transporting patients and our elders to healthcare in Weipa - we need safe roads to ensure our people are protected."
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Bruce Gibson
“In a community like ours, roads are essential. Our ability to grow the community, support local businesses and unlock tourism opportunities all depends on safe, reliable and accessible transport infrastructure. State programs like TIDS are critical to making this possible. Increasing this funding would help maintain existing roads and deliver new connections our community needs to continue to grow. The safety of our travelling public, is integral to our future and the Hopevale Shire Council will continue to encourage any contribution to the safety of our community.”
Mapoon Mayor Ronaldo Guivarra
“Mapoon is located on the western side of the Cape and is heavily reliant on the state of the Queensland road network, when there are floods or road outages we effectively turn into an island which drives up the cost of living, doing business and affects local health. A funding boost would offset rising construction costs and protect liveability in remote indigenous communities.”
For more information, please contact:
Martin Philip, Media Advisor
Phone: 07 3155 4003
Local Government Association of Queensland