Wide Bay encouraged to ‘Think Big’ – New Regional Growth Fund Now Open
02/03/2018
Wide Bay encouraged to ‘Think Big’ – New Regional Growth Fund Now Open
- Regional Growth Fund is now open for initial applications
- Program will provide grants for major projects valued over $20 million
- Initial Applications close on 27 April 2018
Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien is calling on the private sector, community organisations and other levels of government to think big and apply for funding from the Coalition Government’s much anticipated Regional Growth Fund.
“Applications are now open and I’d like to see proposals come forward for transformative, sustainable projects that will capture opportunities to help shape the future growth of the region,” Mr O’Brien said.
The $272 million Regional Growth Fund will support major projects in regional, rural and remote areas that deliver long lasting economic benefits.
“This is an exciting new program that is set to deliver major projects that are valued over $20 million that take advantage of the region’s natural economic strengths. Eligible organisations can apply for grants of $10 million or more, representing a maximum of 50 per cent of project costs,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Successful Regional Growth Fund applications will create jobs, deliver economic growth and boost regional resilience.
“Wide Bay has a historically high unemployment rate and the Regional Growth Fund is structured to support big, new investment from the private sector, other levels of government, and not-for-profit organisations that address this challenge by capitalising on our opportunities and advantages.
“Initial applications close on 27 April 2018 and I encourage everyone eligible to look at the program guidelines and apply for funding.”
Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the Coalition Government’s Regional Growth Fund will be a game-changer across Australia by unlocking government funding for projects that have the capacity to transform regional areas.
“Successful projects will provide greater support to existing industries such as agriculture, tourism and manufacturing, allowing them to innovate and flourish.
“The Regional Growth Fund is an open invitation to everyone eligible who believes in regional and remote Australia to partner with the Coalition Government to support positive change for the future. I look forward to working together with local organisations to deliver more jobs and more opportunities across regional Australia.”
For more information on the program, including the application process, visit www.grants.gov.au
