The federal government has pledged $5.4 billion dollars to fund the Hells Gate dam, in what will become Queensland’s largest dam.

It will cover 60,000 hectares in northern Queensland and will be the equivalent of four Sydney harbours.

But while the federal government has committed the money in next year’s budget, the project will be subject to approvals at the state level.

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce is urging the Queensland government to get on board.

“We are putting all of the money up, $5.4 billion dollars … and all we need the state government to do is say the words ‘Let’s get going’,” he told Scott Emerson.

Asked about whether the state government will give the necessary approvals, he says he hopes so.

“This is the challenge to the Queensland government: let’s test your metal.

“Are you there for people who work, are you there for labourers, are you the Labor party or are you the Greens party?”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview, including Ash Barty’s retirement