Community groups on the Sunshine Coast could benefit from Federal Government grants of up to $20,000 each for small scale infrastructure upgrades and essential community equipment under the latest round of the Stronger Communities Programme, open for applications now. The Liberal and Nationals Government is providing a further $150,000 for projects in the Sunshine Coast Federal electorate of Fisher in this seventh round.
Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace said that up to 20 projects in the southern and central Sunshine Coast would be funded, with grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 available. To reflect the on-going challenges of COVID-19, this year’s grants can once again be used in most cases to cover 100 per cent of eligible project costs without the need for co-funding.
“Community and volunteer groups have really come to the fore during COVID-19, providing social support, companionship and practical help at a time of isolation and hardship for many. This is the perfect time to invest in these groups and give them the capacity they are asking for to step up as we build our recovery on the Sunshine Coast.” Mr Wallace said.
Groups in Fisher who have previously been funded as part of this programme include Metropolitan-Caloundra Surf Life Saving Club who received $9,000 for a new patrol trailer, RoboCoast Sunshine Coast Robotics Association who received $13,775 to purchase robots, laptops and training mats for training sessions in schools; and Montville Village Association who received $13,500 for construction of a covered deck and upgrade of disability access at the heritage listed Montville Village Hall.
“As we have seen time and again here on the Coast, this type of investment brings people together by strengthening social connections, building community participation and delivering a brighter and more vibrant future for communities. This kind of funding can be the spark that gets a fantastic new project off the drawing board and into reality, making a difference for people on the Sunshine Coast.”
“In past rounds I have received up to 200 expressions of interest so I would encourage all eligible organisations on the Sunshine Coast to get involved before the deadline and make the strongest case for your project possible.” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government was continuing to back regional Australia.
“Through the Stronger Communities Programme, our investments support local jobs, grow local economies and deliver lasting infrastructure and much-needed equipment,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“We are providing $22.7 million under Round 7 to deliver investment in regional areas, support jobs to drive our economic recovery, and ensure our regions remain great places to live and visit.
“Our Government is continuing to back regional and remote communities, providing opportunities for them to get ahead and prosper into the future.”
Through the Stronger Communities Program, the Government has provided more than $135 million for projects for community-building and job-creating projects across Australia.
