Aid for local infrastructure projects good for community development

When you're looking to purchase new Gold Coast property, the happenings of the local council may not be high on your scorecard. However, taking notice of the changes occurring in local government with relation to the development of your new home area could help you make good property decisions in the future. 

For example, the Queensland government recently announced a number of  reforms to local governments that aim to foster economic development and jumpstart infrastructure growth. The Sustainable Planning and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2014 proposes changes to simplify and streamline the process for funding and approvals in local councils. As a result, this will help projects get off the ground faster.

Minister for state development, infrastructure and planning Jeff Seeney said the bill has been created after months of back and forth discussion between local and state governments. 

"Councils who choose to observe the fair schedule can make application to have key works identified as Priority Development Infrastructure that could potentially attract co-funding by the state," said Mr Seeney in a 9 May statement. 

"This will help to relieve cost pressures on councils, developers and service providers when it comes to sharing the burden of paying for infrastructure such as roads and water and sewerage treatment plants."