Queensland’s rural communities and services are set to benefit from the 2010-11 state budget, Carolyn Male MP, State Member for Pine Rivers said.

Carolyn Male MP said services across the state would be boosted by more than $7 million in funding from the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI).

“DEEDI has delivered a budget to provide rural communities with the resources they need to strengthen their economies,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“The 2010-11 State Budget commits more than 57% of the building program for regions outside of Brisbane.”

Carolyn Male MP said the budget also delivers funding of $1.88 million for the Queensland Regional Development Initiative program.

“This program assists regional and remote area development organisations to promote regional economic development activities and strengthen industry,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“DEEDI has also provided $1.53 million to assist with the state’s aquaculture, fish stocking schemes and for the Australian Government’s Fisheries Research and Development Corporation.”

“$3 million in payments will be made to primary producers to help them manage their livestock resource during drought and to assist in the restoration after drought.”

“The budget also included a $1 million investment in the pest management offensive to detect and eradicate new pests and reduce the impacts of widespread pests.”

Carolyn Male MP said the 2010-2011 state budget would assist local communities to develop essential services and tourist attractions.

“The Bligh Government has been supporting the excellent work of a number of regional businesses and community organisations throughout Queensland, “Carolyn Male MP said.

“We are working very hard to create economic growth and prosperity for regional Queensland.”