THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT has announced over $8 billion in funding for upgrades to the state’s roads and rail system, with $3.53 billion committed to major road infrastructure.

The road works plans, which will be undertaken over the next financial year, have been put together with a special focus on connecting communities and supporting jobs, keeping 27,000 workers employed.

“During next financial year, $3.53 billion will be spent providing road improvements and other initiatives across Queensland, as part of our continuing investment in infrastructure,” Roads Minister Craig Wallace said.

“Our priority is to manage the impact of urban growth while providing an efficient road network for Queenslanders.”

Of the roads budget, $360 million will be spent on the Gateway and Logan motorways, while local governments can expect grants totalling $50 million, with a further $43 million spent on the Federal Government’s Black Spot program.

A total of $66 million has also been committed to the Safer Roads Sooner program.

Transport Minister Rachel Nolan said that $1.2 billion would be spent on the public transport system of Queensland’s south-east.

“This includes allocations for long-distance rail and coach services and aviation,” she said.

Despite the big spend on roads, the QLD Government is pushing ahead with the decision to scrap its fuel subsidy, meaning that on July 1, fuel prices will increase 9.2 percent.