Millions of dollars in Federal Government funding is available to invest in projects on the Sunshine Coast.
Applications are open for Round 6 of the Building Better Regions Fund program.
The funding is expected to pave the way for new projects that communities need, to be delivered from next year.
Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace, has called on Sunshine Coast Council and local community organisations to start preparing applications for projects, to receive a share in $250 million.
“Since my election in 2016, the Sunshine Coast has seen more Federal Government investment in local infrastructure than ever before,” he said.
“In previous rounds of this grant program the Sunshine Coast electorate of Fisher has received $3 million for upgrades to Caloundra Events Centre, $231,200 for renovations to Palmwoods Memorial Hall, $191,000 to build new apartments for students with disability at STEPS Pathways College and more.
“Our Government has a strong track record of delivering projects that are important to Sunshine Coast residents and I look forward to discussing new ideas with Sunshine Coast Council and local community groups this summer.
“Funding these projects in our region will ensure our communities have the facilities they need for the future, while creating jobs now and driving our economic recovery.”
The BBRF supports economic and social infrastructure for the long-term benefit of regional communities.
Funding the infrastructure and services that communities need for the future is expected to create jobs and help them rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Funding under Round 6 takes the Government’s total investment through the BBRF to $1.38 billion.
This includes an investment of $4.3 million in the Sunshine Coast electorate of Fisher, which has helped fund seven local projects.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government was focused on ensuring regional areas 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,” he 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.”
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Local governments and eligible incorporated not-for-profit organisations can again apply for grants of $5000 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 for this round close on Thursday, February 10.
For more information visit the Building Better Regions Fund web page.
