Gas industry boom brings uneven growth to Western Downs towns
ABC News Australia reports that as the gas industry heats up again in Queensland's Western Downs, some towns are growing rapidly while others face strains on housing, healthcare and school capacity. Local councils are pushing for a rethink of infrastructure priorities.
ABC News AustraliaABC News Australia reports that the Western Downs region of inland Queensland is enjoying an economic upswing on the back of a new wave of gas production, but the effect is uneven between towns. Chinchilla and Miles face sharp rises in housing costs while smaller settlements are not capturing enough of the economic gains.
Mayors in the region say current infrastructure plans rely on population projections drawn up years ago. Access to medical centres, queues for schools and childcare, and demand for social housing are the most common complaints. The state government said the infrastructure review will be completed in September.
Gas companies say expanded production will bring billions of dollars in investment to the region. Environmental groups stress the need to closely monitor wastewater management and seismic effects. Watch the state infrastructure draft and council budget debates in the coming weeks.
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