The Crisafulli Government has greenlit a major funding package to fast-track three infrastructure projects across Townsville and Hinchinbrook — unlocking over 2,700 new homes in North Queensland.
Delivered under round one of the $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, this $36.8 million investment is part of a bold new strategy to break through infrastructure barriers and accelerate regional housing supply.
Where the Funding Is Going
Townsville:
$29.5 million will go to the City Council’s $42 million Northern Beaches Trunk Road Infrastructure Package — a game-changing project that provides a second access road to the Bruce Highway via Svensson Road. The result? Major congestion relief on Mount Low Parkway and the unlocking of over 2,600 new home sites.
Hinchinbrook Shire:
$7.3 million has been committed to two projects across Como Road, Scovazzis Road, and Sir Arthur Fadden Drive in Ingham. These flood-resilient developments will unlock around 180 new homes, directly addressing the housing pressure exacerbated by the devastating 2025 floods.
Why This Matters
The message from the Government is clear: Queensland’s housing crisis isn’t confined to Brisbane. With 114 of the 178 submissions to the fund coming from regional and remote areas, the demand for infrastructure that enables residential development is acute across the state.
This investment is not just about roads and pipes. It’s about creating vibrant, liveable neighbourhoods in fast-growing regional centres. And it’s happening right now.
Voices From the North
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie says this is just the beginning.
“We’re delivering on our commitment to give more Queenslanders a place to call home by backing shovel-ready projects in North Queensland. This is about real infrastructure that unlocks real homes.”
Townsville Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney welcomed the nearly $30 million boost:
“This shows the State Government is genuinely backing the growth of our region. These roads are vital for unlocking housing in one of our fastest-growing areas.”
Hinchinbrook Acting Mayor Mary Brown emphasised the impact:
“These projects are a game-changer for Hinchinbrook. This isn’t just about water and sewer — it’s about building a future where our community can thrive.”
A Fresh Approach to Fast-Tracking Housing
This announcement follows the decision to double the fund from $500 million to $1 billion in the 2025–26 Budget, with more rounds to come. The focus? Getting shovel-ready infrastructure built now, with at least half of all funding allocated to regional, rural, and remote Queensland.
What’s eligible? Critical trunk infrastructure like roads, stormwater, water supply and sewerage that clears the path for infill and greenfield developments.
The fund forms a core part of the Crisafulli Government’s Securing Our Housing Foundations Plan, aimed at enabling the delivery of one million new homes by 2044.
What Builders Should Be Watching
For builders and developers in the region, this announcement is more than a headline — it’s an invitation.
Councils are actively engaging in the Fund and looking for builder partners who can move quickly once the infrastructure is in place. There’s also growing public expectation that new developments will be both timely and community-focused.
Here’s what this means if you’re in the game:
- Be ready for tenders tied to new greenfield estates
- Keep close contact with local councils as project plans emerge
- Position your projects around infrastructure-rich zones like Townsville’s Northern Beaches
- Tap into buyer sentiment with marketing that highlights new access, amenity and growth potential
Final Word
With the State doubling down on unlocking housing supply, the door is wide open for builders ready to act.
If you’re a North Queensland builder, developer, or supplier, this is your moment to step in, scale up, and be part of the solution.
Have insights, questions or opportunities to share around these projects?
We want to hear from you. Email us at [email protected]
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