THE 2025-26 Queensland State Budget, handed down on Tuesday, outlines a fresh start for the State, with key investments aimed at improving community safety, health, housing, education, and easing cost of living pressures.
For Ipswich – one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions – the Budget promises targeted support to meet the needs of its rapidly expanding population.
Housing is a major priority, with Ipswich’s population expected to double over the next two decades.
The Budget delivers a record $8.1 billion for housing initiatives, including the Boost to Buy scheme, which will help more local first-home buyers reduce the deposit gap.
A further $73.2 million will go towards expanding and improving social and community housing across the region, with 192 social homes already under construction or contract. These form part of the plan to deliver 53,500 homes statewide by 2044, in partnership with the Federal Government.
Community safety measures will see Ipswich benefit from the $5.2 billion Making Our Community Safer Plan. This includes nine short-stay programs under the Regional Reset Program to support youth showing high-risk behaviours.
New Crime Prevention Schools will also be established to re-engage young people who have left mainstream education and are at risk of falling into crime.
Cost-of-living relief will provide practical help to Ipswich families. Every primary school student will receive a $100 Back to School Boost to assist with school essentials, while the new $200 Play On! voucher program will make children’s sport more affordable, promoting active, healthy lifestyles.
Healthcare services in Ipswich are set for major improvements through the State’s record $33.1 billion health budget.
The Ipswich Hospital will receive $925 million for Stage 2 of its expansion, which includes a new acute clinical services building with 200 additional beds.
The Ripley Satellite Health Centre will also benefit, with $129.9 million allocated to build a three-storey sub-acute modular unit providing 90 new beds for rehabilitation, geriatric, palliative, and interim care.
Education funding will support Ipswich’s growing communities, with plans for a new primary school in Ripley Valley and new special schools at Leichhardt State School and Springfield-Redbank. These projects are part of the State’s $21.9 billion investment in schools.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Budget laid the groundwork for a stronger, safer future.
“We are delivering a plan to restore safety where you live, provide health services when you need them, and support a better lifestyle through a stronger economy,” he said.
