North Queensland was seen as a big winner in the federal government's budget annoucement but Kennedy MP Bob Katter says the truth is in the pudding.
Mr Katter was buoyed by specific investments to the region but believes Tuesday's budget lacks bold vision for infrastructure projects in north Queensland.
Copperstring 2.0 transmission and "make-money infrastructure" is what he believes will reduce energy costs for major mines and refineries in the states northwest.
But there was no commitment from the Commonwealth to these projects.
However, he's satisfied with continued funding for the Hughenden Irrigation Project (HIPCO), Big Rocks Weir and Hells Gates Dam.
Moreover, road infrastructure upgrades and a $10 billion reinsurance pool for northern Australia are also welcome news.
Mr Katter has campaigned for government assistance to surging insurance premiums in the region for years.
While noting he is "55 per cent confident" the $10 billion government guarantee to make insurance more affordable will happen, the timing is calculated.
"Will it happen, we'll have to wait and see," he told AAP.
"But it's important to note its happening after the federal election. It's now a major priority for the KAP to ensure that this reinsurance pool is not derailed.
"I will be working closely with the local brokers to ensure we get the right outcome (and) I'm placing the government on notice."
Other notable announcements are $174.2 million over two years for a royal commission into defence and veteran suicide, a $68.5 million progressive incentive schedule to increase bulk billing payments for doctors based on remoteness, and $68.5 million towards internet and mobile coverage for rural areas.
The Kennedy MP also welcomed a renewed investment into regional journalism.
Mr Katter wrote several letters to the communications minister about the future of AAP and said he was relieved to see $15 million of funding in the budget.
"Regional journalism has taken a big hit, so we need all the assistance we can get," he said.
"AAP has established a bureau in North Queensland due to this funding so it's excellent to see certainty around its future.
"We need reporters keeping the bastards honest, and we need our stories and concerns amplified to the rest of the country."
Overall, Mr Katter says the the government's budget commitments will bring great benefit to the region.
"There's very real benefit for us in the budget (in north Queensland)," he said.
"I want to see that those promises from the government are delivered.
"Because you don't go making statements and promises, and then not keeping them."
Australian Associated Press
