$250 million in funding is now available from the Morrison Government under the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) to invest in projects which will help build the future of the Sunshine Coast. Applications for Round 6 of the program are now open, paving the way for new projects that our communities need and deserve to be funded and delivered from next year.
Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace is calling on Sunshine Coast Council and local community organisations to start preparing applications for projects to receive a share in the $250 million.
“Since my election in 2016 the Sunshine Coast has seen more Federal Government investment in local infrastructure than ever before. Today the Liberal and Nationals Government is continuing to deliver the services and infrastructure our community deserves.” Mr Wallace 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.” he said.
“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.” Mr Wallace said.
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 will create jobs and help them rebound strongly 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 is focused on ensuring our regions 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,” 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.
“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.”
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 for this round close on Thursday, 10 February 2022.
For more information visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/regions/regional-community-programs/building-better-regions-fund
