Pressure is mounting on Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to help pay for a new stadium in Townsville after the Queensland government ensured it will be built if Labor wins the federal election.
Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt announced on Friday a $50 million funding boost for the project, which will see the state's contribution increase from $100 million to $140 million.
Another $10 million boost will come from the North Queensland Cowboys, who will take out a loan and pay 10 years' rent for the venue upfront.
Meanwhile, the NRL will underwrite the commitment by agreeing to fund interest payments on the loan.
Mr Pitt said the funding boost will ensure the $250 million project would be built under a federal Labor government, given Opposition Leader Bill Shorten had already pledged $100 million.
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"Today, we are putting this issue beyond doubt if people vote Labor," Mr Pitt told ABC Radio.
"Essentially, the only missing piece now to ensure this has support no matter who wins the election is if Malcolm Turnbull comes forward with $100 million and matches Bill Shorten's pledge."
Mr Pitt said the stadium was vital for the region's economy, particularly after the mass sackings at federal MP Clive Palmer's Queensland Nickel refinery.
The treasurer was holding a media event in Townsville on Friday morning with Cowboys co-captain Johnathan Thurston to announce the funding boost.
AAP np/ews
