North Queensland Stadium blow-out to cost taxpayers millions

Townsville’s new stadium is running over budget by tens of millions of dollars.

9NEWS understands the stadium’s $250 million price tag has blown out to $300 million.

While some have blamed industrial action by the CFMEU, the trade union denies it’s to blame and has pointed the finger at construction company Watpac.

In a statement, CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar said the project is “behind schedule, workers are being pushed to the limit and beyond, and safety has become a secondary consideration”.

“The spotlight needs to be turned on Watpac, and inexperienced subcontractors who have never worked on a project of this size and complexity before,” Mr Ravbar said.

“Workers are being pushed to put in 14 hours days in an attempt to compensate for what has been woefully inept management of this project.

“To turn around and blame workers for delays – in an environment where numerous major safety concerns have been identified – is as unfair as it is cowardly.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick De Brenni told 9NEWS in a statement, he made “no apologies” for fighting to ensure workers’ pay and safety.

“It’s not uncommon for there to be variations in project costs after detailed design is finalised,” he said.

Mr Di Brenni confirmed the stadium is on track to be completed in time for the 2020 NRL season.