The Federal Government’s $1 million contribution to progress a future rail line between Ipswich and Springfield is a case of better late than never, Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum said today.

The SEQ City Deal includes federal funding to progress the plan, and comes 18 months after the Palaszczuk Government committed $1 million to the project.

The $2.5 million total cost for an options analysis includes a $500,000 contribution from Ipswich City Council that was confirmed over 12 months ago.

“This is long overdue – we sought a matching co-contribution of $1 million from the Morrison Government 18 months ago, and again prior to the last federal budget,” Mr McCallum said.

“Both times the Feds couldn’t find $1 million to support our local Ipswich community.

“It’s good to get the rail loop back on track, but the fact remains we have paid an opportunity cost in lost time due to the Morrison Government’s dithering.”

The SEQ City Deal is a $1.8 billion joint commitment to deliver infrastructure and economic priorities that will help transform South-East Queensland.

It will deliver significant investments that will generate thousands of local jobs, boost transport connectivity, enhance liveability and support one of the fastest growing regions in the country.

The City Deal is supported by a $618.78 million investment from the Palaszczuk Government, $667.77 million from the Commonwealth, $501 million from the SEQ Council of Mayors and with $75 million from industry.