IN THE wake of bushfires, drought and the COVID-19 pandemic, regional communities are urged to put in applications for round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund, when it opens next week.
Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said the federal government fund, which opens on Tuesday, January 12, was there to support regional communities.
"Throughout rural and regional Australia, we have $100 million of targeted support for tourism-related infrastructure to get regional tourism back on its feet, while maintaining $100m for broader community infrastructure and investment," he said.
"Grey has experienced tremendous success through BBRF projects with a total more than $27m being injected into the electorate over the first 4 rounds of the BBRF with investments in crucial projects driving economic growth in Grey and delivering lasting benefits to our local communities.
"Some fantastic projects have been funded under previous rounds of this program including funding for a water treatment plant, some outstanding tourism projects, funding for festivals and suicide prevention strategies among them."
Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Minister Michael McCormack said the launch of the program guidelines meant prospective applicants could begin planning their project applications for assessment.
"The Australian government is supporting regional communities across the nation with a particular focus in this round on regional tourism," he said.
"This funding will create jobs and drive economic growth in our rural and remote communities at a time it is needed most."
There are two streams of funding through BBRF:
- The Community Investments Stream supports new or expanded local events, strategic regional plans or leadership and capability strengthening activities that provide economic and social benefits to regional and remote areas.
- The Infrastructure Projects Stream supports investment ready projects that provide economic and social benefits for regional and remote areas.
Guidelines are available to view at business.gov.au/bbrf meaning local proponents can now start developing their applications.
Applications close on March 5 with successful applicants expected to be announced in mid-2021.
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