FEBRUARY 23, 2016: COMMUNITY groups in need of cash injections to get capital projects up and running are encouraged to apply for funding under Round 2 of the Liberal National Government’s Stronger Communities Programme. Seven community groups have been successful in gaining funding for projects in my electorate and we have several others who should hear about their applications under Round One of this programme very soon.This is an excellent way for not-for-profit groups to secure funding for smaller capital projects and I encourage any group interested to contact my office as soon as possible to get more details.Every Federal MP has $150,000 available again this year to fund small capital projects which deliver social benefits, and organisations are eligible for grants of between $5000 and $20,000. However applicants must provide matching cash or in-kind funding. Interested community groups should contact my office as soon as possible, as initial expressions of interest should be received by March 11.This is an exciting opportunity for local communities to work with me to identify potential projects which will contribute to our community’s long term vibrancy and viability.Though these are smaller projects, any project requires manpower, so there is potential job creation in every successful grant.A committee, made up of representatives from Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, the Burdekin and Townsville works with Mr Christensen to assess applications.Find out more about Stronger Communities via http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/SCP