Sixteen Far North Queensland councils have been given more than $25 million to spend on roadworks.

Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the Federal Government had made $25.9 million available to the councils through its Roads to Recovery program.

“These allocations under the Roads to Recovery program are great news for Far North Queensland,” Mr Entsch said.

“This funding provides councils with the ability to invest in upgrading local roads, thereby helping to improve safety for all motorists.

“The funding will also lead to economic growth but, more importantly, job creation in these communities.

“One of the best aspects of this program is that local councils, who have the local knowledge, decide which projects should be made a priority.

“The program is particularly important for the more remote communities in Far North Queensland, who rely on this funding to build and maintain the infrastructure their communities need.”

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the Roads to Recovery program would provide $2 billion over the next five years to local government bodies across Australia.

“The Government is investing $400 million each and every year towards this hugely successful program,” Mr McCormack said.

“This means the majority of councils will receive more Roads to Recovery funding in the 2019‑20 to 2023-24 program than their base allocation in the 2014-15 period.”