Construction of the project is expected to support over 700 jobs in the region and make a significant boost to the local economy.

For too long, football fans have been watching their rugby league and other sport at sub-standard facilities, compared to football stadiums in southern Queensland and New South Wales. Labor will change this.

Modern community infrastructure is critical to local economics, particularly in regional centres, helping to drive economic growth and local jobs.

Townsville Enterprise, a group comprising the Council, local businesses and stakeholders has been actively seeking funding commitments from both the State and Federal Govern-ments and Opposition to replace the ageing stadium.

Labor expects stadium construction to commence by early 2018 with the ground complete for the 2020 NRL season.

This project will be an important boost to the local community, and Labor will work with the Queensland Labor Government and the Council to encourage as much of the work is sourced locally as possible.