The New South Wales (NSW) government plans to lower the road toll cap, while Queensland promises record infrastructure spending in its budget to be presented today, June 23, 2026. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki said on Monday he had budgeted "a record" $119.2 billion for infrastructure over the next four years, including $55.9 billion for roads and transport upgrades — while announcing a bus would replace a light rail project on the Gold Coast planned under Labor.
"Our first budget laid the foundation for a fresh start, and tomorrow's budget will strengthen them because we need to build Queensland's future," Janetzki said yesterday.
One reason for fiscal caution: the state government's finances have been teetering on the edge of a credit rating downgrade for more than a year. Ratings agency S&P Global last October forecast the state will owe 150% of its revenue by 2028, up from 100% in 2023, due to a historically large infrastructure spend, partly thanks to the 2032 Olympics. Janetzki responded at the time that a downgrade was "inevitable".
He will hand down the budget this afternoon at 2pm.
As for the NSW budget, the government plans to lower the road toll cap, but exact details have not yet been released. This measure could provide relief for drivers.
The budgets aim to improve state finances and stimulate economic growth. Queensland's infrastructure funds will be used to upgrade roads, transport systems, and other facilities. The replacement of the Gold Coast light rail project with a bus service is intended to optimize the public transport system.
According to experts, Queensland's rising debt level could pose a threat to long-term economic stability. However, the government insists that infrastructure investments will help create jobs and ensure regional development.
NSW's decision to lower road tolls may be popular among voters but could impact state budget revenues. The government plans to offset these costs through savings in other areas.
Full details of the budgets will be released later today.