LOCAL councils and community organisations now have more opportunities to provide the services and projects the region needs, with the Liberal and Nationals Government announcing a further $250 million in funding available under the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).

 Applications for Round 6 of the program are now open and and it’s time to start preparing applications.

 We’ve seen some great projects delivered in Mackay, Proserpine and the Whitsundays, the Burdekin and Townsville as a result of the Morrison Joyce Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

 We’ve just recently announced $4.1 million for the Mackay Waterfront Riverside Revitalisation Project, and $145,000 for the Proserpine Golf Club to irrigate and improve the course.  

We provided $1.6 million towards the major upgrade of the CQ Rescue helicopter service operations centre, $3.7 million for a water reservoir to double Airlie Beach’s drinking water supply, $1 million for the Mackay Sugar Bowl skate park and $200,000 for the upgrade of female jockey facilities at the Townsville Turf Club.

 We’ve invested $2.1 million in the Whitsunday Sports Park and we put $1.35 million into upgrades for boat ramps all around the Mackay region.

 There’s been further funding which supported both economic and social development.

 Our Government has a strong track record of delivering projects that are important to people in the regions, and I look forward to discussing new projects with local councils and community groups.

 The BBRF supports economic and social infrastructure for the long-term benefit of regional communities.  

“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.”

  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.

 Applications close on Thursday, 10 February 2022.