Crisafulli Government Delivers $8.9 Million for Critical TSC Projects
Published on 10 July 2026
MEDIA RELEASE
10 July 2026
Torres Shire Council has welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s commitment of $8.9 million in critical infrastructure funding for the Torres Shire through the 2026–27 Queensland State Budget.
The announcement was made by the Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Minister for Multiculturalism in Cairns this week.
Funding will be delivered through Round 2 of the Closing the Gap Priorities Fund and will support vital transport and waste management infrastructure across the Torres Shire.
On Horn Island, the funding will deliver significant upgrades to the local landfill facility to expand capacity, ensure environmental compliance and strengthen protections for the Loggy Creek Dam. The local airport will also receive runway upgrades to improve aviation safety and ensure the continued delivery of essential air services to the Torres Strait.
Across Queensland, the Crisafulli Government has committed more than $73 million through Round 2 of the Closing the Gap Priorities Fund to deliver essential public health and infrastructure projects in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Funding announced in the 2026–27 State Budget includes $13.64 million across five projects supporting the Torres Strait islands and the Far North Queensland community of Hope Vale, addressing water security, critical transport, waste management and early childhood education.
In a statement released yesterday, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, said all projects funded under Round 2 were identified through direct consultation with elected Indigenous councils.
“By investing in public health and essential infrastructure in Indigenous communities, we are backing locally prioritised projects that help deliver real, tangible outcomes, better services and stronger foundations for the future."
“Importantly, these projects have been identified by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander councils themselves during our direct consultation, ensuring funding is directed to local priorities and delivers practical outcomes for communities.”
Member for Cook David Kempton said the funding was a significant investment for remote communities. “The works on Horn Island are timely as it continues to grow in importance as a service centre for the Torres Strait,” Mr Kempton said. “The Crisafulli Government continues to work with the remote communities in Cook to improve living standards and health outcomes.”
Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM said the funding recognised the unique infrastructure challenges faced by island communities.
“This is very welcome news for Torres Shire and for our region. When these everyday services are strengthened, our people feel the benefit,” Mayor Seriat said.
“The investment in the Horn Island Landfill is especially important because this facility supports our broader island communities. It is critical for public health, environmental protection, biosecurity and the long-term liveability of our region."
“In the Torres Strait, everything is more complex and more expensive to deliver. We do not have the same access to nearby facilities that mainland communities can rely on, so investment in our own essential infrastructure is vital."
“The runway upgrades at Horn Island Airport will also improve safety and reliability for residents, businesses and the many essential services that depend on aviation. Together, these projects will strengthen the resilience of our region and support future growth.”
Media Contact: CEO Mary Bani
mary.bani@torres.qld.gov.au
Photo Supplied QLD Government