The state has committed millions towards critical infrastructure in one of its fastest-growing regions – paving the way for nearly 12,000 new homes.
The Queensland government has announced $73.6 million towards two infrastructure projects in Ipswich to fast-track new housing.
According to the government, this could unlock 11,300 new homes in Ripley – one of the state’s fastest growing areas that is expected to house 131,000 residents once fully developed.
Bellevue Ripley is one land estate currently in development in the area. Picture: realestate.com.au
The funding comes from the Residential Activation Fund (RAF), which has already supported multiple projects across the state. The fund is part of the government’s broader goal to help deliver one million new homes by 2044.
Much of the first round of funding is directed towards essential infrastructure, including water supply, sewerage, stormwater systems and roads – key enablers for large-scale residential development.
Under the latest announcement, $15.8 million will go towards upgrading Fischer Road in Ripley, potentially fast-tracking 2300 new homes.
The remaining $57.9 million will fund the upgrade of Ripley Road from two lanes to four, paving the way for a further 9000 new homes.
The state government has already recognised Ripley’s growth potential by declaring Ripley Valley a priority development area (PDA). Through the state’s 2025-26 budget, it has also committed funding for a new police facility, expansion of the Ripley Satellite Health Centre, and construction of a new primary school.
Ipswich city council mayor Teresa Harding said these latest infrastructure projects are crucial to supporting the region’s growth.
“No council in Queensland is forecast to grow faster than Ipswich in the coming decades and the Ripley Valley is at the forefront of this growth,” Ms Harding said.
“This $73.6 million injection into Ipswich’s priority development area shows the Queensland Government’s real commitment to addressing the challenges we face in bringing affordable housing to the market sooner.”
She described the investment as a “record” for the area, with significant benefits for both new and existing residents.
“Ripley Road and Fischer Road form the critical link to unlocking an additional 11,300 new homes in this area and reducing congestion for those that already call the Ripley Valley home,” she said.
First launching applications for round one in April 2025, the RAF has received 178 submissions so far with 64 from south-east Queensland and 114 from regional, rural and remote areas of the state.
Recent RAF recipients include projects in Moreton Bay, Toowoomba, North Queensland and Far North Queensland.
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