IPSWICH is set for a major housing boost, with a $73.6 million commitment to fast-track critical infrastructure that will unlock 11,300 new homes in the rapidly growing Ripley Valley.
Local residents and future homebuyers have welcomed the announcement, saying better infrastructure will make a big difference to the liveability of the area.
Ripley local Sarah Mackie, who moved to the area five years ago, said traffic had been a major challenge.
“It’s exciting to hear these upgrades are finally happening,” she said. “The growth out here has been huge, but the roads just haven’t kept up. This will make it so much easier to get in and out of Ripley.”
First-home buyer Jack Tonks, who is looking to purchase in the region, said the commitment gave him confidence in choosing Ripley.
“I’ve been thinking about buying out here because it’s more affordable than Brisbane,” he said.
“Knowing the roads and infrastructure are being improved makes it feel like a good long-term investment.”
The $73.6 million funding, announced under the $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, will deliver two key road upgrades essential for opening up land for housing and easing traffic congestion as Ipswich’s population surges.
The city is forecast to be Queensland’s fastest-growing council area, making new housing supply a top priority.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the investment would play a crucial role in addressing the housing shortage and supporting Ipswich’s growth.
The first project will upgrade Fischer Rd in Ripley, transforming it from a rural two-lane road into a modern urban sub-arterial road, complete with new lighting, stormwater drainage, turning lanes, and a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists. This upgrade will unlock 2300 homes.
The second and largest project will upgrade Ripley Rd, converting it into a four-lane divided urban arterial road with new intersections, cycle tracks, footpaths, street trees and improved township access. This project alone will enable 9000 homes.
With 178 submissions to the Residential Activation Fund and round one funding doubled to $1 billion, Ipswich is among the first to see significant investment flow from this landmark program.
At least half of the fund will go to regional and remote Queensland, but Ipswich’s rapid growth makes it a priority for new infrastructure.
The $2 billion fund is a cornerstone of the Government’s Securing Our Housing Foundations Plan, which aims for one million new homes by 2044 while maintaining community lifestyle and affordability.
