Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, has welcomed the 2026 State Budget, highlighting it as a strong and responsible plan to support the South Burnett with a clear focus on easing cost‑of‑living pressures and investing in essential local infrastructure.

With households under pressure, this Budget includes targeted measures to deliver meaningful relief. Key cost‑of‑living initiatives include reduced energy costs through the Energy Roadmap, a 50 per cent increase to the Back-to-School Boost, and the continuation of Play On! Sports Vouchers locked in for four years to support local families.

Importantly, there will be no new or increased taxes for Queenslanders for the second consecutive year – avoiding the approach taken by the former government, which increased taxes while reducing services.

The Budget also delivers significant investments across the South Burnett, including:

• Progressing the upgrade of the single lane Back Creek Bridge at Cooyar, along with additional safety improvements on the New England Highway, strengthening a vital route for local communities
• Delivery of a replacement Mount Binga Rural Fire Brigade shed, providing volunteers with a modern base to support fire and emergency services
• Further funding to commence construction of the new Kingaroy Fire Station, boosting emergency response capability in the region
• Continued planning for Barlil Weir, supporting long-term water security for the South Burnett
• Installation of solar-powered street lighting across Cherbourg for safety measures.
• A boost to the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme, including faster payments through system upgrades and a nation‑leading 45c/km fuel subsidy to ease the cost of travelling for specialist medical care

Deb Frecklington said the Budget delivers practical outcomes for regional communities.

“This is a practical and balanced budget designed to ease cost of living pressures and invest in long-term growth,” Deb said.

“This year’s Budget delivers a strong and responsible plan to support our community now while building for the future.”

This Budget demonstrates a continued commitment to improving regional infrastructure, supporting emergency services, and delivering real cost‑of‑living relief for South Burnett residents.