BUILDING BETTER REGIONS FUND BUILDING A BETTER WIDE BAY
The Liberal and Nationals Government is investing in the future of Wide Bay with a further $250 million in funding available under the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).
Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien is calling on local councils and community organisations to start preparing applications for projects for Round 6 of the program to receive a share in $250 million.
“Community groups and volunteers do the hard yards to raise money, often sausage sizzle by sausage sizzle, and raffle by raffle,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The Liberal and Nationals Government recognises what you do – that’s why we are unlocking more BBRF funding to invest in regional Australia, and I urge councils and community groups to get their applications in.
“The BBRF gives regional communities the opportunity to secure funding for much-needed infrastructure upgrades such as $2.5 million towards the Sunshine Beach SLSC Clubhouse renovation, $92,414 towards new lighting in the main area at Gympie Showgrounds and $390,328 towards the Maryborough South Street Boat ramp.
“These grants help create new attractions, new experiences and new jobs in Wide Bay and will help drive our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Funding under Round 6 takes the Government’s total investment through the BBRF to $1.38 billion.
This includes contributing towards infrastructure works such as upgrading the jetty on K’gari (Fraser Island) and the new Peregian Beach Community House and expansion of the Digital Hub, to community events including the Rush Festival in Gympie and NOOSA alive! Festival.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government is focused on ensuring our regions remain strong and grow into the future.
“Regional Australians deserve the same services and opportunities that people in metropolitan cities have and the Building Better Regions Fund helps make this happen,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“That’s why we’ve committed another $250 million for projects and initiatives that will transform communities, create new jobs and drive economic growth across regional Australia.
“This will build on the 298 fantastic regional projects that shared in $300 million in funding under the last round of the Building Better Regions Fund.
“Our Government is committed to delivering the best outcomes for regional and remote Australia, which is why we are providing local businesses, industries and families with opportunities to get ahead.”
Local governments and eligible incorporated not-for-profit organisations can again apply for grants of $5,000 up to $10 million to cover 50 per cent or more of eligible project costs.
Round 6 projects will be funded under two streams. The Infrastructure Projects Stream supports the construction of new infrastructure, or the upgrade or extension of existing infrastructure.
The Community Investments Stream funds community development activities including, but not limited to, new or expanded local events, strategic regional plans, leadership and capability building activities.
Infrastructure Projects Stream: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/building-better-regions-fund-infrastructure-projects-stream-round-6
Community Investments Stream: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/building-better-regions-fund-community-investments-stream-round-6
Applications close on Thursday, 10 February 2022.
